Minds Matter Portland empowers high-achieving, low-income students to reach their goal of attending and graduating from college. This 3 year mentoring program offers academic support and hands-on opportunities. Students gain the tools they need to navigate the college admissions process and thrive beyond it.

In the wake of recent changes, the need for community-based support is more urgent than ever. Volunteer mentors play a vital role in closing the opportunity gap for talented students who deserve equitable access to higher education.

Founded over 30 years ago in New York City, Minds Matter has operated in Portland since 2006. Last year, the program expanded to Hillsboro. With two sites now serving students, there are more ways than ever to get involved. 100% of Minds Matter students are accepted to four-year colleges, and 90% go on to graduate from those institutions.

Volunteers are needed in both the Portland and Hillsboro locations. In Portland, they meet with students on Saturdays during the school year in NE Portland site on Alberta Street, next to Eliot School in the adjacent King neighborhood. Sign up for a coffee chat to learn more about what it’s like to volunteer, or fill out an online application if you’re ready to get started today!

On a personal note, I have also been volunteering as a mentor with Minds Matter for the past 4 years, and have found it an incredibly rewarding journey. If you’d like to hear more about my personal experience, please email serena@eliotneighborhood.org.