Introduction
At R.E.A.C.H.—Real Educational Answers for Community Hope, transformation accelerates when people connect with guides who inspire, challenge, and support them. The Mentorship & Development program creates those connections for Luzerne County through structured mentoring, professional development, and leadership training.
Purpose
Individual Guidance
Match participants with trained mentors for practical advice and support.
Leadership Skills
Equip participants to lead in families, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
Career Advancement
Provide development activities that improve employability and success.
Community Networks
Foster relationships that extend beyond the program and strengthen Luzerne County.
Program Components
1) One-on-One Mentoring
Matching: Interest and needs assessments pair mentees with mentors by goals and style.
Cadence: Meet at least twice monthly in person or virtually.
- Educational planning (GED, college)
- Career exploration and job readiness
- Life skills: budgeting, time, stress
- Recovery support for SUD/mental health
2) Group Development Sessions
- Professional Development: Communication, leadership, conflict resolution, project management.
- Life Skills: Financial literacy, healthy relationships, community engagement.
- Peer Networking: Monthly mixers with speakers and service projects.
3) Leadership Pathways
- Emerging Leaders: Advanced workshops + community project.
- Youth Leadership Academy: Public speaking, civic engagement, capstone.
- Volunteer Leadership: Organizing events, recruiting volunteers, advocacy.
Mentor Recruitment & Training
Standards
- Age 21+
- Background check
- Six-month minimum commitment
- Professionals, retirees, students welcome
Training Curriculum
- Communication and active listening
- Boundaries and confidentiality
- Cultural competence and trauma-informed care
- Goal-setting and motivational strategies
Ongoing CE and peer support provided.
Participant Eligibility & Integration
Who We Serve
- GED students and returning learners
- Individuals in recovery or treatment
- Young adults entering the workforce
- Residents seeking leadership roles
No income limits. Commitment and engagement required.
Integrated Support
- Education: stay on track, explore college.
- Job Training: mock interviews, networking.
- Counseling: reinforce coping strategies.
- Outreach: serve together in the community.
Evaluation & Outcomes
Quantitative
- Active mentor–mentee pairs
- GED completion and employment rates
- Group session attendance
- Mentor/mentee retention
Qualitative
Surveys, focus groups, and mentor reports capture growth in confidence, decision-making, and relationships.
Continuous Improvement
Quarterly review of data to refine training, content, and matching criteria.
Success Stories
Sarah
Balanced parenting and GED prep with mentor support; now enrolled at LCCC nursing.
Michael
Recovery + weekly mentoring led to job search wins; now volunteers as a peer mentor.
Dana
Youth Academy participant who led a county clothing drive and earned a service scholarship.
Stories anonymized to protect privacy.
Accessibility & Inclusion
- Meet at R.E.A.C.H., libraries, community sites, or via secure video.
- Evening/weekend scheduling available.
- Bilingual staff and interpreters on request.
- Transportation assistance may be provided.
See our Accessibility Statement.
How to Enroll or Volunteer
For Mentees
- Complete an intake form online or in person.
- Attend orientation to set goals and expectations.
- Get matched with a suitable mentor.
For Mentors
- Submit volunteer application and references.
- Complete background screening and interview.
- Finish mentor training and get matched.
Future Directions
- Industry-specific mentorship in healthcare, tech, and skilled trades
- Peer-to-peer youth mentoring tracks
- Entrepreneurship workshops
- Digital mentor platform for scheduling, resources, and progress
Call to Action
Mentorship turns potential into achievement. Volunteer, refer a mentee, partner for internships, or donate to sustain training and materials.
Through one-on-one guidance, group development, and leadership opportunities, R.E.A.C.H. helps residents gain the confidence and skills to build brighter futures—and a stronger Luzerne County.