Needs From: Volunteer Houston

Minds matter transforms the lives of high school students from low-income families by expanding their dreams and preparing them for college success. The Houston chapter Programming Team plans and facilitates weekly sessions with our participating high school students and their mentors. These sessions are typically focused on career exploration, life skills, and college admissions & preparation.

We are looking for volunteers who can join our Volunteering team. We currently have 3 co-directors of volunteers and as we continue to grow, we are looking to add at least 2 more. Responsibilities include recruiting new mentors and volunteers, facilitating orientation for new mentors, following up with weekly attendance and finding alternates for sessions, and mentor engagement throughout the school year.

Currently mentors and mentees meet during weekly sessions that are held via Zoom from 10am - 1pm on Saturdays over the course of the school year, excluding holiday periods. Eventually we will return to our pre-pandemic schedule, meeting in person in downtown Houston. If you're interested and have questions, please respond to this post and email volunteers@mindsmatterhouston.org. You will not have to attend these sessions, but manage mentors leading up to each session and making sure all of the students have mentors on the day of the session.

Minds Matter Houston is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps top-performing high school students from low-income backgrounds reach their dreams of getting into college. Average student GPA is at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale). 90% of students are 1st generation college students.

http://mindsmatterhouston.org/

Requirements -*Please apply only if you meet these requirements.

College graduates Teaching, tutoring, or other experience working with kids or teens a plus. Excellent planning and communication skills

*Currently taking applications for our incoming sophomore class starting Fall 2022!

Please click here for more information: http://mindsmatterhouston.org/volunteers/

Please fill out an application https://www.tfaforms.com/310839

*Unsure if you can commit fully? Apply to be an Alternate Mentor!

We are back to in person sessions! Sessions will be held at the Post Oak School.

Minds Matter is a 26 year old not-for-profit organization that helps top performing high school students from low-income backgrounds reach their dreams of getting into college. Average student GPA is at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale). 90% of students are 1st generation college students.

Our volunteers are young professionals who play a critical role in helping these Minds Matter students achieve their goals. This is a 3 year program for the student, they begin our program their sophomore year and continue until high school graduation.

Mentor Time Commitment: 1-2 hrs/week, 20-24 Saturdays- October through June. We pair 2 mentors with each student to work for 1.5 hours most Saturdays during the school year.

Mentor Role: Guide mentees through everyday life and school challenges, work with the mentee on essays, problem solving, summer program selection, college selection and applications. Our weekly sessions are structured and we also have special sessions (ie college fairs, debate team, guest speakers) as well as fun mentor/mentee outings and volunteer-only get-togethers throughout the year, giving ample opportunity to get to know your mentee as well as other volunteers.

Mentor Requirements: Young professionals, college graduates, attend at least 75% of Saturday sessions, and undergo a background check. We will have a Mentor orientation before the start of the program.

Click here to start an application.

Reports to: Director of Programs
Team: Programming Team
Location: Houston, TX
Time Commitment: 4 hrs per week
Duration: September through June

Role Overview: As a Mentor at Minds Matter Houston, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our students. You will work directly with a high school student, providing guidance, support, and encouragement. Your mentorship will help them navigate the challenges of high school, college applications, and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

Mentorship: Develop a trusting relationship with your mentee over their 3 years in high school (sophomore to senior year), meeting regularly to discuss academic progress, personal development, and college goals.Academic Support: Assist with any Minds Matter homework and program applications, ensuring your mentee stays on track academically. Summer Program & College Readiness: Guide your mentee through the summer program and college selection process, including researching schools, filling out applications, and selecting a program.Life Skills: Help your mentee develop essential life skills, such as time management, goal setting, and effective communication.Motivation: Inspire and motivate your mentee to strive for excellence and to believe in their potential.

What We Offer

Training: Comprehensive training sessions to prepare you for your role as a mentor.Community: Join a vibrant community of like-minded volunteers and professionals dedicated to making a difference.Support: Ongoing support from Minds Matter staff and experienced mentors.Impact: The opportunity to make a tangible difference in the life of a young person and contribute to your community.

What We’re Looking For

Passion for Education: A strong belief in the power of education to change lives. Commitment: Reliability and consistency are key over the three years. Our students depend on your support! Empathy: Understanding and compassion for the challenges faced by our students.Communication Skills: The ability to listen, guide, and inspire. Background Check: All mentors must pass a background check before starting.

Why Volunteer as a Mentor?

Make a Difference: Help shape the future of a young person in your community. Personal Growth: Develop your own skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving.Networking: Connect with other passionate professionals in Houston and expand your network. Fulfillment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of seeing your mentee succeed.

Join us at Minds Matter Houston and become a part of something bigger. Your mentorship can unlock a world of opportunities for a deserving student. Together, we can create a brighter future, one student at a time.

How to Apply: Fill out an application form here. A representative will then reach out to you to learn more about you. For more information, contact our Volunteer Recruitment Director at volunteers@mindsmatterhouston.org.

Deadline to Apply: August 31, 2024

Join us and be the change you want to see in the world.

About Minds Matter Houston: Minds Matter Houston is dedicated to transforming the lives of high school students from low-income families by broadening their dreams and preparing them for college success. Our students are bright, motivated, and ambitious, but they face significant barriers to reaching their full potential. With your support, we can break down these barriers and pave the way for their future success.