Mentor & Volunteer
Volunteers are essential to our mission, dedicating their time and talents to create a meaningful impact in our community. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities that help students achieve their full potential. Whether you are an individual, part of a corporate team or a community group, we welcome your support. Discover how you can get involved and support education in Pinellas County.
Mentor a Student
Do you have 30 minutes twice a month to change a student’s life?
We need caring and compassionate volunteer mentors to support students in grades 6-12 through our Take Stock in Children program. As a mentor, you will be a role model and trusted advisor, empowering students to navigate school, build confidence, and set meaningful goals.
Through mentoring, this program expands students’ horizons, introducing them to opportunities they may not have considered possible. Many students face financial hardships and other challenges that could prevent them from seeking higher education. Your guidance will help them develop essential life skills and stay on track for post-secondary education.
Mentoring requires just 30 minutes per session, twice a month, during the student’s school lunch break. Your time and support can make a lasting difference in a student’s future!
Become a Mentor Today!
Follow these four steps to start your mentor journey.
1. Complete the Take Stock in Children State Mentor Application
2. Watch the mentor training video
A link to the video will be emailed to you after completing the application.
3. Register as a volunteer with Pinellas County Schools
Check the box for Take Stock in Children.
4. Sign up for the PCS Mentor Workshop
Once approved as a PCS volunteer, attend the workshop either in-person or virtually.
Additional Volunteer Opportunities:
We offer a variety of ways to get involved and make a difference! You can inspire students by sharing insights on a webinar, volunteering during a field trip to Enterprise Village or Finance Park, assisting with scholarship reviews or becoming a Lunch Pal.
Participate in a Group Webinar:
Lead a virtual career or skill development presentation for students. Share your professional journey, introduce new careers or industries, and offer guidance on topics like resume writing, job interview prep, or time management.
Volunteer at Enterprise Village:
Guide fifth-grade students as they take on real-world job roles. Help them run businesses, earn paychecks, manage finances, and work as a team in a simulated economy.
Volunteer at Finance Park:
Help eighth-grade students navigate through a hands-on simulation where they create budgets, manage expenses, and explore the impact of their financial choices.
Review Scholarship Applications:
Evaluate student applications from home at your own pace using a set rubric. Your insights help award scholarships for college, technical, culinary, and arts schools. The review period is February – April annually.
Be a Lunch Pal
Mentor an elementary student by providing encouragement and guidance during their lunch break. Just 30 minutes once a week can build confidence, create a lasting connection, and make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
Resources for Mentors
Tools to help you be a successful mentor.
Want to mentor or volunteer?
Fill out the form and we will reach out.
Mentoring Impact
“What truly transformed my experience was the mentor I gained through Take Stock in Children. Mentorship, for me, has been a lifeline. My mentor served as a guiding light, offering wisdom and support at every critical juncture, especially during the college application process.”
– Vidi L., Take Stock in Children Mentoring Program Alumni
Teacher Impact
“The work you do in uplifting educators makes such a difference in our ability to inspire, innovate, and serve our students. I am beyond grateful for all that you’ve done to support me, and I will continue to pour that gratitude back into the work I do every day.”
– Natalie S., Visual Arts Teacher
Mentoring Impact
“My mentor has been an outstanding person for me throughout high school, she has offered support, encouragement, and wisdom since the beginning that has helped me navigate challenges, set goals and grow as a person. Her guidance, serving as a light, shaping my confidence and aspirations, inspiring me to strive for excellence and to believe in my potential.”
– Valerie O., Take Stock in Children Mentoring Program, Class of 2025
Scholarship Impact
“The support from the scholarship program has been a huge source of motivation for me. Knowing that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my education has inspired me to work even harder toward my goals.”
– Kelvin A., Scholarship Recipient
Classroom Impact
“The Literacy Magazine project I received funding for impacts so many students at our school. Students can submit a poem, short story, flash fiction, artwork, or photos for publishing consideration. They anxiously await the magazine’s arrival, and when it does, the excitement is palpable. On behalf of all students and staff members who love to read students’ original writing and see their creative art, thank you very much.”
Teresa Z., Classroom Grant Recipient
Partners in Impact
