Mentoring with Pathwise is meaningful, fun, and transformative.
Pathwise is Palo Alto’s only free, non-profit, after-school enrichment program for less-resourced and historically-underrepresented middle-schoolers. By mentoring students, you’ll earn service hours, make a meaningful contribution, and grow as empathetic, purposeful leaders.
Why mentor?
Impact and equity
Support a middle school student from an underserved background—have a positive impact on their life.
Skill-building and leadership
Build leadership, communication, and teaching skills through hands-on experience and regular training sessions—no tutoring background required.
Supportive community
Work side-by-side with other mentors in a welcoming classroom, guided by experienced staff and classroom directors.
Become a Certified Pathwise Mentor!
Want to build your resume, gain real-world leadership skills, and make a lasting impact? Pathwise is proud to launch the Pathwise Mentor Certification Program—a specialized program designed to equip high school students and community members to become elite youth mentors.
Through this program, you won’t just volunteer. You will train, reflect, and lead.
How to Earn Your Certification:
1. Learn (SAGA Training):
Complete our interactive reflective modules in partnership with SAGA Education to master the fundamentals of modern mentoring and youth support.
2. Listen (Alumni Insights):
Learn how to confidently navigate real-world middle school scenarios through exclusive video guidebooks created by experienced Pathwise mentor alumni.
3. Lead (Hands-On Impact):
Apply your skills in real-time by completing 10 hours of active volunteering in our afterschool program.
Why Join the Cohort?
A Powerful Resume Builder:
Walk away with a formal certificate to highlight on college applications, scholarship essays, and job resumes.
Real-World Skills:
Master communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills that employers and universities look for.
Community Impact:
Be the positive, guiding force a middle school student needs to navigate their own path to success.