Project SMART (Student Mentoring And Responsibility Team)
Teacher Bill Patty working with a 6th grade student
Mentors for At-Risk Students
The Foundation is here to give a helping hand to children who are having difficulty in school and in life. Through Project SMART, at-risk children in grades four through nine are matched to caring, fully-trained adult mentors.
This project at Clovis Community Day School provides students with an adult mentor for one year. Most students who enroll at Community Day School have behavior issues, failing grades, poor attendance and live in low socio-economic environments. Many are exposed to drug and alcohol abuse, are involved in gang activity and are victims of family violence.
Mentor Diane Condley working with 5th grade student
Support and guidance from a caring mentor can change a child’s life. Mentors provide children with academic tutoring, support counseling, positive and fun activities, a steady adult presence in their lives and simply someone to talk to. Children participating in Project SMART improve their grades; improve relationships with peers, teachers, and family members; are more likely to stay in school; have reduced incidents of juvenile delinquency and reduced involvement in gangs.
Sometimes, kids just need a fair break.
“My mentor, Kristin, has helped with my social problems as well as with school. She knows what I’m going through and she gives me good advice.” Derek, 8th grader
“My mentor, Gunner, has helped me to pay attention and to not get in trouble. He is a friend that I can trust and depend on.” Caleb, 5th grader
If you would like to give a fair break to a child who really needs one, please consider
- Providing a child with a mentor for one year. Cost: $2,000 per mentor