Help change students lives as an ASPIRE mentor
The Higher Education Coordinating Commission, Office of Student Access and Completion encourages community members statewide to sign up as ASPIRE volunteers at OregonStudentAid.gov/ASPIRE to help students find pathways to success.
ASPIRE is the State of Oregon’s mentoring program to help students access education and training beyond high school. The program matches trained and supportive adult volunteer mentors with middle and high school students to develop a plan to help them meet their future career and education goals. ASPIRE volunteering opportunities are available at 157 schools or sites throughout the state. Mentors do not need prior experience, and training, tools and resources are provided.
“This is probably the most direct way to make a difference in a young person’s life,” said Adrienne Simmons, ASPIRE mentor at Ashland High School.
Students who participate in ASPIRE gain support in planning for their lives after high school, receive help in applying for training and college programs, and also get assistance in applying for scholarships and financial aid. Students at ASPIRE sites are more likely to graduate on time and enroll in college at higher rates. ASPIRE students are also more likely to receive financial aid through scholarships and grants.
The unique roles ASPIRE mentors play in the life of students were reflected in exit surveys of recently mentored students. One student said, “My mentor guided me through every step to college. Without her help I would not be attending college.” Another student said his mentor guided him “through the ins and outs of how to approach a new job.”
The ASPIRE program’s call for volunteers is part of National Mentoring Month, an annual national campaign held each January, focusing attention on the need for mentors, as well as how partners can work together to increase youth mentoring. Oregonians with the time and willingness to become ASPIRE volunteer mentors in their communities can learn more, find an ASPIRE site in their area, or sign up at OregonStudentAid.gov/ASPIRE.
