Starting a new school year while the COVID-19 pandemic still lingers on entails a challenging way for many students to begin their schooling, especially under-resourced children. To help guide pupils, the Fuller Center in Boca Raton started accepting applications for its mentorship program.
The nonprofit, education-focused organization aims to provide youth ages 6 through 20 with access to a positive, caring relationship with a nonparental adult or teen through its United Way of Palm Beach County funded program.
“We believe it’s critical that we come together as a community to help one another, particularly as our students begin a new school year, after going through such a challenging time,” says Ellyn Okrent, CEO of the Fuller Center. “This is an opportunity for people to find a meaningful sense of purpose and do something that will make a huge difference in the lives of our kids.”
After passing a background screening, mentors must commit to meeting at least once a week for one year to help establish stability. They are matched with a student they will gather with after school and during the summer for at least an hour of mentorship at one of the two Fuller Center locations in Boca Raton.
Mentors can use their experiences and interests to forge relationships as they assist with homework and provide life guidance. Those interested in joining the program can receive training to learn ways to build relationships with youth.
For those who cannot contribute their time, the Fuller Center also offers an “Adopt a Class” program that helps fund classroom projects throughout the year while attending various class activities when available.
To learn more, please get in touch with Olga Bearhope at obearhope@ffcdc.org or 561-391-7274, ext. 136.
