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Minds Matter Southern California

Cause Area

  • Children & Youth
  • Education & Literacy

Location

3939 South Vermont AvenueLos Angeles, CA, CA 90037 United States

Organization Information

Mission Statement

to connect driven and determined students from low-income families with the people, preparation, and possibilities to succeed in college, create their future, and change the world.

Description

Minds Matter supports students in their sophomore, junior, and senior year. Our program offers a unique combination of mentoring support, group instruction, and social-emotional learning. We provide students with the resources and guidance needed to gain admission, enroll, and succeed at rigorous four-year colleges. Support continues during college with internships, professional skills-building, and access to our alumni platform.

Reviews

Would you recommend Minds Matter Southern California?
14 reviews Write a review
by Shirley F. (2024-11-16 17:48:11.0)
Minds Matter Southern California has positively impacted my life in so many ways! As a student, it was an amazing experience to be surrounded by so many other like-minded students with the same goals and passion. Now, returning as a volunteer has been a more fulfilling experience than I could ever comprehend. I'm able to help these passionate students thrive and give them the support they need to achieve their goals. Not to mention, it is truly a community you are a part of for life : ) Being an alumna and still being able to attend and hear so many events has been amazing
by Sohail M. (2024-11-09 14:13:41.0)
I have been a volunteer at Minds Matter for over 10 years, as a mentor and a team leader. Participating in this organization and working with incredibly bright and talented young men and women has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. The program has a strong curriculum targeted to help high-achieving students from underprivileged backgrounds get into college. Most of these students are first-generation college students who benefit immensely from working with mentors who can share their experience from school, college, and the professional world. Minds Matter also trains and supports mentors, giving them the information, tools, and resources they need to succeed in their roles. I highly recommend this organization and would encourage any potential volunteers to consider joining and making a profound difference in a young high school student's life.
by Frank M. (2024-11-09 09:43:25.0)
I've been a volunteer for the past four years at Minds Matter SoCal. Through my experiences with students, volunteers and staff, this journey has changed my life forever. I am inspired by the work we accomplish, the bonds we make and the impact we feel every day. Our work allows brilliant students to first imagine what's possible for them, and then to help them realize their dreams. In my work as a Senior Program Director, working with our Senior Class each year, I see first hand how the cumulative efforts of our entire team culminate in each of our students accepting offers to attend their chosen college. We need writing coaches, test prep advisors, team leads, mentors, and many other volunteers. Please consider Minds Matter an excellent opportunity to change your life, too.
by Irwin L. (2024-11-07 07:43:30.0)
as a former student there wasn't a week that I did not look forward to meeting my mentor on the weekends. They gave me life advice, college apps help, and became an important part of my life
by Melisa S. (2024-11-06 18:23:06.0)
Minds Matter SoCal changed my life as a first-generation high-school student over 10 years ago. This program played a large role in my academic and professional journey. As a now-volunteer, the community is incredibly supportive and welcoming. The students are bright and ever-inspiring. Whether you join as a mentor, team lead, writing coach, or test prep instructor, your time and effort is returned 10-fold.
by Brandi C. (2024-11-04 21:34:08.0)
This is my third year volunteering with Minds Matter, and it has been and incredibly rewarding experience. I get to work with bright, talented students in community that truly cares. There is also a lot of support and guidance for volunteers, and may opportunities for leadership.
by Jennifer K. (2024-11-02 13:00:15.0)
I started with Minds Matter SoCal 4 years ago, and it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences. I started as a mentor and was nervous about how to connect with my mentee. But Minds Matter has great programming each weekend to help you build the mentor-mentee relationship. Mentors are also paired with a co-mentor which definitely helps make it easier. It’s also great to meet a community of volunteers passionate about making a difference in students’ lives and to hear and learn from their experiences. Every year, my favorite day is College Signing Day. You get to see students, who come in as shy, quiet sophomores, speak about where they are going to college in front of their friends and family. It’s a great way to celebrate their growth and achievements. Hearing their excitement for the future and their big plans for college and beyond is always inspiring.
by Justin B. (2024-11-02 07:28:53.0)
Minds Matter has been such an amazing experience! Having the opportunity to be a part of this significant period in a student life as they navigate their path to higher education is incredibly rewarding. I look forward to many more years with Minds Matter!
by Hannah S. (2024-11-01 13:13:33.0)
I've been involved with MindsMatter for almost 6 years and I can't recommend it enough. It has been a great way to build community in Los Angeles and I've built very impactful relationships with many students.
by Josh F. (2024-10-30 10:47:03.0)
Minds Matter SoCal is an incredible organization. The impact the program and its mentors/volunteers make on students' lives is truly life changing for them. The program is well run and sessions are highly organized - if you're looking for a way to make a big impact on someone's life within your community, Minds Matter SoCal is an amazing option. The connections made between a student and a mentor are lifelong.
by Kristal O. (2024-10-29 18:55:12.0)
From a student to now a volunteer, this program truly changes lives. I loved seeing my mentors when I was a student and now I love being able to see the students and watch them grow into such amazing humans ready to go to college and take on the world.
by H Z. (2024-10-29 12:22:52.0)
I have been a volunteer with Minds Matter for 10+ years. This is a wonderful organization that provides direct impact in our community that fills a much needed service for students from low income families. The volunteer experience is fulfilling and there are many different roles within the organization to accommodate your skillset/interest.
by Leilani G. (2024-10-25 12:43:14.0)
I am a Minds Matter Alum and have benefitted from the mentorship I received from this program. It strengthened my writing and self-expression, equipping me to communicate ideas more clearly and confidently. It also gave me invaluable guidance on navigating college life's academic and social aspects. Being on the alumni council has deepened my appreciation for Minds Matter. Thanks to the strong connections we built during the program, I continue to receive support beyond high school and stay in touch with my mentors.
by Stephany M. (2024-10-23 18:37:39.0)
Minds Matter has been a phenomenal organization to be a part of. The chance to make a difference and connect with high school students in a longitudinal manner has been so impactful as a young professional. I look forward to every Saturday, and have so much fun each session. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to make a difference in the world of education.

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