Be The Difference: Become A Mentor With Elevate Bay

PANAMA CITY, FL – Elevate Bay is once again calling on compassionate community members to step up and make a difference in the lives of local students. As Bay District Schools prepares for the 2025–2026 academic year, the Elevate Bay Mentorship Program is expanding its dedicated team of mentors, everyday heroes who are helping shape the future, one student at a time.

“Are you looking for a way to give back to your community with tangible results?” Elevate Bay asks. “Do you have just one hour per month to dedicate to our local students?” If you answered 'yes' or if you are curious about getting involved, Elevate Bay invites you to attend their upcoming New Mentor Orientation on Wednesday, August 13, at 11:00 am in the Nelson Building, 1311 Balboa Avenue.

This one-hour session will equip attendees with everything they need to know about the mentorship process, including how to connect with students, build meaningful relationships, and become a trusted guide through life’s challenges. Whether you are mentoring once a week or once a month, your presence can have a lasting impact.

Elevate Bay serves hundreds of students throughout Bay District Schools, offering mentorship to those who need encouragement, direction, and a caring adult in their corner. Research shows that students with a mentor experience improved academic performance, stronger self-esteem, and a greater sense of belonging, all benefits that reach far beyond the classroom.

Mentors are matched with students based on compatibility, interests, and needs. Background checks are required to ensure a safe and supportive environment, and volunteers receive tools and strategies to help them succeed, from goal-setting tips to communication best practices.

The program is flexible, making it easy for busy professionals, retirees, and community members of all kinds to get involved. Even just one hour a month can provide a student with the encouragement they need to believe in themselves and aim higher.

To learn more about how you can become part of this life-changing initiative, visit the Elevate Bay page on the Bay District Schools website at https://bay.k12.fl.us/elevate-bay, contact Stacey Legg at leggsl@bay.k12.fl.us , or follow along on Facebook at facebook.com/ElevateBay for updates, inspiration, and stories from the field. 

Don’t just make a difference- be the difference. Join Elevate Bay and help shape a brighter future for Bay County’s youth.