MENTORS

One Person. One Commitment. One Life Changed.

Not every act of restoration happens in a classroom or a cohort session. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do for someone rebuilding their life is simply show up for them consistently, check in, listen, encourage, and remind them that someone in their corner believes in who they are becoming.

That is what a RISE Mentor does.

What Is a RISE Mentor

A RISE Mentor is a volunteer who is personally matched with one student moving through a RISE program. Your role is not to counsel, case manage, or fix. It is to be a consistent, caring presence in someone's life during one of the most critical seasons of their journey.

You are the person who sends a message on a hard day. Who celebrates a small win that nobody else noticed. Who shows up beyond graduation when the program ends but the journey does not. Who reminds someone, again and again, that they are not alone and that their growth matters.

How It Works

Once you complete the RISE Mentor orientation you will be matched with one student based on compatibility, background, and need. You will connect with your student at least once per week throughout their program. You will coordinate lightly with their assigned facilitator so everyone is working in the same direction. You will continue checking in through the 6 month and 12 month follow-up period after graduation. You will have access to the Prison 2 Praise Ministries support team whenever you need guidance.

What We Ask of You

A genuine commitment to one person for the duration of their program and beyond. Completion of the RISE Mentor Orientation before being matched with a student. At least one meaningful touchpoint per week, whether a call, a message, or an in-person visit. Honesty with our team if you are struggling or need support yourself. A willingness to be changed by the relationship as much as you hope to change someone else.

What You Will Receive

A brief but thorough orientation that prepares you for the relationship before it begins. A direct connection to the student's facilitator so you are never operating in isolation. Ongoing support from the Prison 2 Praise Ministries team throughout your commitment. The profound and irreplaceable experience of watching one person's life shift because you refused to look away.

Who This Is For

Community members who feel called to serve but are not ready for the full facilitator commitment. Church members looking for a personal and meaningful act of service. Professionals, retirees, and everyday people who simply believe that showing up for one person consistently can change everything. Alumni of RISE programs who want to give back what was given to them. Anyone who has ever wished someone had shown up for them and wants to be that person for someone else.

The Mentor and Facilitator Relationship

RISE Mentors and Facilitators work together, not in competition. The facilitator leads the program. The mentor sustains the person. Together they create a support structure around each student that is both structured and relational, both accountable and caring. When both are present and engaged, students do not just complete a program. They build a life.

Beyond Graduation

The formal program ends at Week 12. The need does not. RISE Mentors are uniquely positioned to walk with students through the critical post-graduation window, the months when the structure of the cohort is gone and the real test of transformation begins. Your continued presence during this season is not a bonus. It is one of the most important things you can offer.
You do not need a degree, a title, or a perfect story to be a RISE Mentor. You need availability, consistency, and a genuine belief that the person in front of you is worth showing up for.

That is enough. That has always been enough.
Have questions before applying? Contact us at support@prison2praise.org and we will be glad to talk with you.