With the Dec. 3 deadline less than two months away, tnAchieves needs an additional 5,900 volunteer mentors across the state to support TN Promise applicants from the Class of 2022.
Locally, Hamilton County needs an additional 262 mentors to meet its goal of 403. Other area counties with remaining mentor needs include:
• Bledsoe County: 13 mentors still needed;
• Bradley County: 115 mentors still needed;
• Grundy County: 9 mentors still needed;
• Marion County: 30 mentors still needed;
• McMinn County: 43 mentors still needed;
• Meigs County: 13 mentors still needed;
• Polk County: 14 mentors still needed;
• Rhea County: 33 mentors still needed; and
• Sequatchie County: 12 mentors still needed.
TN Promise, in partnership with tnAchieves, allows every graduating high school senior the opportunity to attend a community or technical college tuition-free with mentor support.
Mentors spend one hour a month assisting students as they transition from high school to college.
In 2022, mentors will have the choice to serve their students either virtually or in person, depending on the mentor’s preference.
Many of the students that apply for the scholarship will be the first in their families to attend college. Mentors work with students to overcome barriers that previously prevented students from accessing higher education. In 2022, mentors will play a critical role in helping to reverse negative enrollment trends brought on by the pandemic, officials said.
“The Class of 2022 has faced countless obstacles and challenges in their pursuit of a high school diploma,” said tnAchieves Director of Mentors Tyler Ford. “tnAchieves mentors offer the personal support and encouragement many students need to ensure their transition to college is smooth as they begin their post-secondary career motivated and prepared to realize their full potential.”
Graham Thomas, tnAchieves deputy director of Partnerships and Government Relations added, “Ultimately there is no substitute for a committed, caring local support system. Our mentors offer support to students who may otherwise have nowhere else to turn for guidance through the college-going process.”
Mentors will be provided with an online training and a handbook to help navigate the program. Volunteers will also receive weekly updates from tnAchieves and have access to our staff for questions and concerns.
Potential mentors must be 21 years of age and are subject to a background check. For more information or to apply, you can visit http://www.tnachieves.org/mentors or contact tnAchieves Director of Mentors Tyler Ford at 309-945-3446 or tyler@tnAchieves.org.