Volunteer Opportunity: Iron Horses Mentorship Program
Update, November 2023: Volunteers are still needed for this year’s program. Please click here to register.
At Point Hope, we recognize that schools and education play a pivotal role in the success of a community – and vice versa! Located just a walk or bike ride away for students living in Point Hope, Philip Simmons Elementary, Middle and High Schools have been pillars of our community since before the first residents moved in. But those schools can’t excel in a vacuum. They need the participation and support of parents and the greater community in order to help students thrive. The brand new Iron Horse Mentorship Program at Philip Simmons High School is just one way the community can help.
Hub Operations and Events Manager Erin Dudley volunteered to be a mentor to a student this year, and she recently attended an orientation session where she learned more about the program.
The Iron Horse Mentorship Program is designed to encourage student achievement through individual mentorship focused on developing community connections and expanding students’ supportive networks. The program facilitates one-on-one interactions with prominent members of the community to ground Philip Simmons students in their high school experience. Through relationships with their mentors, students are able to explore their unique interests, strengths and talents in a supportive environment. The goal is to better prepare students for success in their academic, social and professional endeavors.
Iron Horse Mentorship Program Goals:
Enhance students’ experiences through their individual talents and strengths
Prepare students for college and/or the workforce
Create opportunities for students to explore personal and professional interests
Broaden students’ exposure
Provide students with the support they need for holistic growth and development
Build confidence
Nurture relationship-building skills
Studies show there is a direct correlation between mentorship, reduced dropout rates and higher achievement for high schoolers. We can’t think of a better way for our community to support our community schools than by participating in the Iron Horse Mentorship Program. If you live in the area and are interested in learning how you can help, please contact Erin Dudley for further information.