This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
The Graduation Coaches Campaign, a program that connects Philadelphia youth with adult mentors, is in its second year.
Through the program, coaches are matched with students to help guide them through school and the college application process.
The campaign, which is a part of the city’s PhillyGoes2College initiative, has trained over 1,800 coaches since its inception. Prospective coaches participate in a 90-minute workshop that prepares them for working with students. There are some challenges to the process.
"Our greatest challenge is keeping in touch with people who have gone through the workshop," said Barbara Mattleman, PhillyGoes2College executive director.
To address this, the campaign has set up networking events for coaches and students to encourage maintaining consistent contact.
Anyone can become a coach, but the campaign is primarily looking for adults who have experience coaching young people through college.
To become a coach, call the Graduation Coach Campaign at 215-686-2176, or email info@phillygradcoach.org.