It's no secret that underprivileged teens are at a much higher risk of dropping out of high school than their more affluent peers. This unfortunate trend piqued the interest of education experts last year, when the organization America’s Promise Alliance conducted a study that showed just how important the role of mentors are in the lives of underserved teens. The informal learning environment offered by coaches, church leaders, professionals, and volunteers often provides crucial lessons in life skills that can't be taught in schools or seen at home. In fact, teens who have a social support system outside of home and school are more likely to make education a priority, even when faced with potential hurdles like pregnancy, substance abuse, and homelessness. That's why educators and organizations are looking to find ways to incorporate mentorship programs into public schools—but can it be done? Should it be? 

Last year, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the Corporation for National and Community Service provided $90 million in grant funds to incorporate mentorship programs in schools across the nation. Enough money to provide for a large sum of at-risk teens, but nowhere near enough to fulfill the need reflected by the study. What's more, when mentors end their relationship prematurely, the impact can be worse than had they not been involved at all. Despite this, the net effect mentorships have had on disadvantaged teens has overwhelmingly been a positive one. With the support of dedicated and caring mentors, students can start to believe that they can succeed in high school, college, and way beyond. And when well-to-do teens are two or three times more likely to have mentors than their less-privileged peers, all we can do is try to offer a level playing field.

If you're interested in partnering with mentors, head over to Volunteer Match for opportunities in your area.