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FROM STAFF REPORTS
With the October 20 application deadline for tnAchieves mentors fast approaching, Carter County is still in need of 39 mentors to meet the local student demand. Statewide, over 3,500 volunteer mentors are still needed, making this a critical effort to support students pursuing higher education through the TN Promise program.
As the deadline looms, tnAchieves is appealing to individuals willing to contribute their time and expertise as mentors. Prospective mentors can apply by visiting tnAchieves Mentor Application.
tnAchieves, a well-established nonprofit organization, has been working diligently to attract mentors who are essential to assist the Class of 2024. Mentors play a pivotal role in guiding students through the college application process and providing them with valuable insights, helping these young individuals navigate their academic journeys.
The organization acknowledges and deeply appreciates the contributions of local businesses, stakeholders, community members, and current mentors, who have all banded together as members of Team tnAchieves. This support network is pivotal in ensuring that tnAchieves students receive the necessary assistance, making the programs more impactful in the communities they serve.
Tyler Ford, Senior Director of Mentors at tnAchieves, expressed gratitude for the commitment and dedication of stakeholders in the mentor recruitment process. “Meeting our mentor recruitment goals across the state would not be possible if not for our committed, dedicated stakeholders. As we make the final push to recruit the remaining 3,500 mentors required, we are grateful to any individual or organization who answers the call to stand with students. Mentoring represents an important tool to connect students not just to post-secondary opportunities but to professionals and workforce opportunities in their community. Thank you to those who support tnAchieves each year,” said Ford.
Many TN Promise students will be the first in their families to attend college, and they often require additional support and encouragement as they navigate the complex college application process. Mentors provide invaluable local support for students who might otherwise lack guidance or encouragement during this pivotal period.
Kelly Lancaster, a mentor with tnAchieves, highlighted the importance of guiding these students, who are poised to become the future leaders in various industries, schools, and communities. “We owe it to ourselves and the next generation to equip them for success and guide them to reach their full potential in whatever they choose to do,” said Lancaster.
tnAchieves mentors contribute just one hour per month to serve students in their communities. To support their efforts, tnAchieves offers training, handbooks, and weekly updates throughout the year. Additionally, monthly webinars ensure mentors have ongoing support as they work with students.
To be a mentor with tnAchieves, individuals must be 21 years of age and are subject to a background check. The organization offers a dashboard that provides an overview of mentor needs statewide, which can be accessed at https://chat.openai.com/c/link.
Founded in 2008, tnAchieves is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has been providing scholarships with mentor support. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Tyler Ford at tyler@tnAchieves.org or (309) 945-3446. This mentor recruitment initiative aims to equip the next generation for success and inspire them to reach their full potential.