Mentors, Mindsets & Role Models

Mentoring is a proven strategy for assisting students in the development of the academic and life skills they need to be college ready and career ready. To help schools and communities better understand the many benefits of mentoring and the ways in which programs are planned and implemented, Texas GEAR UP created Mentors, Mindsets & Role Models.

This kit of multimedia materials is designed to help project directors and planning teams develop successful mentoring programs. It includes videos, discussion guides and reference materials that explore various mentoring program models, a close-up look at a start-up mentoring program in La Grange, Texas, and an outreach video to assist in mentor recruitment. All the materials were developed with input and support from GEAR UP projects in Texas. So go ahead and start exploring the world of mentoring…

Mentor Programs That Work

Not sure which type of mentoring might be right for your needs? See overviews of four mentor program models implemented by GEAR UP projects in Texas. Learning which models have worked for different types of communities can be a good place to start program planning efforts.

La Grange: On the Road to Mentoring

Get a firsthand look at the process as a rural Texas town replicates a big city’s school-based mentor program thanks to the efforts of one concerned parent. See what unfolds as the school district goes through each step of implementing a program and bringing students in need together with caring adults from the community.

UPDATE: A follow-up video revisits La Grange nearly two years after the launch of its mentor program to see firsthand how the program has grown and made a real difference of the lives of the students.

Mentors Make a Difference

Ideal for mentor recruitment efforts, this motivational video highlights ways in which a mentor can make an enormous impact in a young person’s life. The collection of inspiring mentoring tales and images will enhance recruitment presentations to virtually any audience.