School/Site-Based Mentoring

This program provides college/ high school students (mentors) an opportunity to mentor elementary/middle school children (mentees) on the school (or site) premises. Both mentors and mentees grow academically and socially in a group mentoring situation. A Torchlight coordinator supervises and facilitates mentor/mentee interactions during the weekly two-hour sessions. Torchlight currently has programs in schools throughout Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties.

Mentor Application
Mentee Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Potential Mentors

  • High school and college-aged students are eligible to volunteer. Volunteers must have reliable transportation to and from the school where the program is held or arrange transportation with a parent, guardian, or another responsible adult.

  • Mentors volunteer once each week for approximately 1–2 hours on a designated weekday afternoon. Meeting days and times vary depending on the school.

  • Site-Based mentors are asked to commit for the duration of the school year.

  • Mentoring sessions take place at the participating school where the program is offered.

  • Activities vary by school and program but may include crafts, STEM projects, board games, outdoor activities, team-building exercises, holiday-themed projects, educational activities, and much more. Program Managers plan each session and are always open to new ideas.

  • During the first several weeks of the program, mentors and youth participate in activities that allow them to get to know one another. Both mentors and youth are then asked to identify potential matches, and the Program Manager carefully reviews these preferences when creating matches.

  • Mentors participate in an orientation prior to the start of the program. During training, volunteers receive a mentor handbook and review program expectations, policies, and best practices for working with youth.

  • Site-Based Mentoring follows its own screening process, which includes an application, interview, references, and mentor orientation.

  • Mentors receive program materials, regular check-ins from program staff, and ongoing support throughout their volunteer experience. Staff are always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and assist with any concerns that may arise.

  • There is no cost to volunteer in any of our mentoring programs.

  • Mentors provide encouragement, support, and positive role modeling that can have a lasting impact on a young person's life. While every mentoring relationship is unique, mentors often help youth build confidence, strengthen social skills, explore new interests, set goals, and develop healthy relationships. Sometimes the greatest impact comes from simply showing up consistently, listening, and helping a young person know they matter.

  • Complete a volunteer application, and the Program Manager for your selected program will contact you to discuss the next steps and answer any questions.

Parent/Guardian of Potential Mentees

  • Eligibility varies by school, as each program serves different grade levels. Site-Based Mentoring is designed for youth who could benefit from building positive relationships, increasing confidence, strengthening social skills, or receiving additional encouragement from a mentor.

  • Programs meet once each week after school throughout the school year, typically from October through May.

  • Once each week throughout the school year, following the participating school's calendar.

  • High school mentors complete an application, participate in an interview, provide two school references and one family reference, and attend mentor training before being accepted into the program.

  • Mentoring sessions take place at the participating school where the program is offered.

  • Youth safety is our highest priority. All volunteers complete a screening process appropriate to their program, which may include background checks, interviews, references, home visits, and mentor training. Program staff provide ongoing supervision, support, and regular communication throughout the mentoring relationship.

  • Families and youth are welcome to share any preferences during the enrollment process. While we cannot guarantee a specific mentor, we carefully consider these preferences whenever possible during the matching process.

  • We understand that not every mentoring match is the right fit. If concerns arise, families are encouraged to contact the Program Manager. Staff will work with everyone involved to determine the best next steps and, when appropriate, explore an alternative match.

  • Mentoring provides youth with an additional supportive adult who offers encouragement, guidance, and positive role modeling. Through mentoring, youth can build confidence, strengthen social and communication skills, explore new interests, develop healthy relationships, and gain exposure to new opportunities. A caring mentor can help youth feel supported, connected, and empowered to reach their goals.

  • No. All Torchlight mentoring programs are offered free of charge to youth and families.

  • Families, caregivers, professionals, and community members may submit a referral through our website, contact our office by phone, or speak with one of our Program Managers to learn more about the enrollment process.

    You can also simply fill an application out by clicking the link at the top of the page.