Mentoring Matters: Make a Difference for LA Youth

Minds Matter Southern California; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; Full time

Job description

We believe a student's zip code should never decide their future — and that opportunity begins with someone who cares. Every Saturday, our students — most of them the first in their families on the road to college — come together with a community of volunteer mentors, writing coaches, test prep tutors, and college advisors for programming that spans mentorship, college essay writing, SAT preparation, social‑emotional learning, summer program access, and college advising. The results speak for themselves: 100% of our students are accepted to four‑year colleges, and 80% of our current college students attend top‑50 schools as ranked by US News.

But what makes Minds Matter special is the community behind those numbers. Our volunteers don't need to be educators or admissions experts — we provide training, co‑mentor pairings, and staff support for every role. What they bring is consistency, care, and a belief in every student's potential. Many tell us they've learned as much from their students as they've given, and mentor relationships often continue well beyond the program — through college, graduations, even weddings.

Whether you have two hours on a Saturday or a passion for storytelling, test‑taking strategy, or holding space for honest conversation, there's a place for you in this story.

Support students as they navigate academics, life, and the path to college.

As a Minds Matter mentor, you’ll be a trusted guide, a consistent presence, and a champion for a high‑achieving student. You’ll work alongside a co‑mentor in a small group (a “quad”), helping your mentees build confidence, develop life skills, and navigate high school and the college application journey.

Mentoring isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up with heart, embracing growth together, and helping your mentee turn challenges into opportunities.

Time Commitment

~2–3 hours per week from August through May. This includes attending at least 80% of Saturday sessions (12 – 2:30 PM) and a brief weekly check‑in with your quad.

Support & Belonging

You’ll be paired with a co‑mentor and supported by a team of leads, coaches, and staff.

You’ll Love This If

You value deep relationships, enjoy showing up consistently, and want to make a lasting difference in a student’s life.

Impact

• “Young people with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college.”
• Mentors often say, “This is the most meaningful part of my week.”
• Over 90% of our students graduate from four‑year colleges, and mentors are a big reason why.

Note

This is an ongoing, in‑person volunteer opportunity on Saturdays during the academic school year. Bachelor's degree required.

Mission

Minds Matter is an organization dedicated to preparing motivated and bright students from low‑income families to succeed in college. For more information, visit the Minds Matter SoCal website (http://mindsmattersocal.org) or email us at [e-mail].