Community College Ministries in partnership with Alliance for Excellence and Central Virginia Community College hosts a mentoring program for at-risk African American young people in the communities in and around Lynchburg, VA.

Purpose
Young people identified as at-risk for academic difficulties, such as first-generation college students or students working and attending college at the same time, are paired with mentors who serve as positive role models.

The objectives of this program are:

• To improve retention at Central Virginia Community College
• To increase self-discipline in African American young people
• To assist African Americans attain a degree
• To increase transfer rates of African Americans to 4-year institute or vocational training
• To encourage African Americans to succeed academically, socially, and professionally.
• To expand the mentoring program to the Martinsville, Danville, and Roanoke service regions

Process
Potential mentors and mentees attend a Mentor/Mentee Luncheon to learn about the program and receive program information and applications.

Mentors and mentees are paired using information received on application.

Mentors and mentees attend a two hour training session presented by a trained consultant, who informs them of what is expected during the mentoring process, guidelines for mentor/mentee interaction, rules of supervision, and how to get the most of the mentoring experience.

Mentors contact mentees at least once a month, with most pairs meeting more frequently.

Mentees also participate in educational and cultural events, such as the National Student Leadership Conference, a financial aid workshop, College Day, cultural trips, and skills workshops.

Expansion
The mentoring program in Lynchburg, VA will serve as a model for similar programs in the Danville, Martinsville, and Roanoke service regions. The expansion of this program will begin in January of 2006.

Participation
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the mentoring program in Lynchburg, VA as a mentor or mentee, please contact Muriel Mickles at Central Virginia Community College.