With the donated funds and scholarships for the students of Bowers/Whitley Career Center, our futures will likely be more successful because of the chance to attend college.

Bowers/Whitley has helped me with my life, which is so important to me!  In my past school years, I was lazy and unmotivated.  I don't really know why I was that way, but this school has brought me out and helped me become a better student and a better person.  This very special school made me realize that without education, it is so difficult to make it in life.  My previous schools didn't help me believe in myself.  I never really felt like I could make something of myself and have a good future.  But now I actually feel that I can make it in life and actually "be someone" who is successful.

I am really looking forward to continuing my education in college.  I never thought that was even possible!  I hope to begin my college studies at HCC in an effort to reach my career goals and maybe even someday work for the FBI.

For more stories about students like Joseph, click here.

Having a mentor gave me the sight to see and appreciate the different opportunities I have in my life to become successful.  My mentor keeps me on the right tracks and shows me the right way of doing things by his experience. ~ Kendall

For just one hour each week, caring individuals are changing the lives of students in Hillsborough County by serving as a mentor.  The time these mentors are spending with their student is having a lasting impact both on the child and the adult.  A mentor's guidance can help the student stay on track in class, think about the possibilities for the future, and solve those impossible problems all teenagers face.  Studies show that under the guidance of a mentor, students have a better attitude towards school which leads to higher attendance rates, and are more likely to pursue higher education.

Students who receive a Foundation Florida Prepaid Scholarship are paired with mentors who are willing to provide guidance, support, and encouragement throughout the school year.  As more students receive these scholarships, more mentors are needed to give them the rich experience they deserve.  Currently, we still have students who are waiting for a mentor.  Responsible adults who can spend their time making a difference for these students can volunteer to be a mentor.  For just one hour each week, you can help a student find the confidence and determination to become the best person they can be.

For more information on the Take Stock in Children mentoring program, click here.