The Okaloosa County Take Stock in Children (TSIC) program is currently seeking caring, committed mentors to guide and support local high school students in grades 9–11 during the upcoming school year. Mentors play a crucial role in helping students stay on track academically, build confidence, and plan for a successful future. This is a powerful opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the life of a student—right here in our community. "We invite community members to search their hearts and consider giving just a small portion of their time to invest in a student’s future," said Lori Lipnicky, College Success Coach for the Okaloosa County TSIC program. "Mentoring changes lives—and not just for the student."
Important Information for Prospective Mentors:
After completing an online application, all mentors will undergo a background check and fingerprinting (in partnership with the Okaloosa County School District).
A short mentor training session will be offered in August, typically lasting 1–2 hours.
Mentors meet with their student at the student’s school at least 15 times during the school year—about 30 minutes every other week.
TSIC provides helpful resources and discussion guides to support each mentoring session.
Mentors log their meetings through a secure and user-friendly mobile app, which also allows safe communication between mentor and mentee.
Those interested can find more details and begin the application process by visiting the statewide Take Stock in Children website: https://www.takestockinchildren.org/mentors/. We encourage individuals, local businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders to consider becoming mentors—or sharing this opportunity with employees, friends, and family. For more information, contact Lori Lipnicky.