TThe NEXT step after elementary is Middle School.

Kids Hope NEXT>> mentors have the same basic goals as Kids Hope USA mentors in the elementary program; to faithfully show up each week to help meet the social, emotional, and academic needs of their students.

The difference is that these needs are changing, requiring a fresh approach to this NEXT phase of existing student relationships as well as offering new match relationships for at-risk 6th and 7th graders who need a mentor.

This program expands our existing One-to-One Kids Hope influence including new matches with middle school students who have never had a mentor.

Mentors receive extra training to be a role model, advocate and friend to these young adolescents. NEXT mentors help keep their student on track for high school graduation:

Building on individual student strengths
Encourage consistent attendance
Improved behavior competency in core courses