What is MentorU?
MentorU is Big Brothers Big Sisters' innovative model that facilitates a curriculum-based group mentoring for youth ages 12-16 in Calcasieu Parish who are a high-risk for dropping out of school and who may have risky behaviors, by blending technology with a structured focus on college readiness, workforce development, career exploration and social-emotional learning. The MentorU program provides small-group mentoring sessions for students facing academic and personal challenges, and is intended to keep them on track for graduation and post-high school success. All small-group mentoring sessions are crafted to maximize alignment between students' career aspirations, critical life skills, and to lessen risky behaviors. Incorporating a strong focus in JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) will be front and center in working with our Youth and our Core Values of Belonging, Intentional & Inclusive, and Genuine will be developed within our MentorU Curriculum.
Why MentorU Exists
MentorU's mission is to help youth develop personal, academic, and career skills by providing each student with a relationship-based mentor that can provide students with both the social, emotional, and technical skills needed to build a path for career success. The MentorU small-group mentoring sessions also offer students extra opportunities and guidance for career exploration, post-high school education opportunities, and future planning. MentorU will focus on Calcasieu Parish youth ages 12-16 respectively that have been referred by various youth programs that are at a high-risk for destructive and educational risks. Our goal is to defend the potential of each youth we mentor.
We're Looking for Mentor Advisors!
We're looking for people JUST LIKE YOU to become mentor advisors for MentorU! Mentors Advisors must be ages 18+ and be able to commit to a minimum of one year activity in MentorU. The Mentor Advisor MUST assist with small-group mentoring sessions. Once you've inquired, our MentorU team will reach out to schedule a meeting with you where they will walk you through the Mentor Advisor process. Click below for more information on the enrollment process and where to inquire.
MentorU Program Partners, Calcasieu Parish
Calcasieu Parish School Board, Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Office, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury/Office for Juvenile Justice, City of lake Charles, Cheniere Energy and Capital One. *Groups or organizations who are interested in helping or getting involved with the MentorU Program may contact Jacilia Thibodeaux, Supervisor Juvenile Justice, MentorU Program at jacilia@bbbsswla.org or 337-478-5437.