UStrive and Citizens Unite to Enhance Mentorship Opportunities for Students Nationwide

Empowering Futures: UStrive and Citizens Forge a Mentorship Alliance

In a significant move to bolster mentorship for college-bound students, UStrive, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring, has teamed up with Citizens, a prominent financial institution. This partnership marks a pivotal step towards providing essential guidance for students navigating the complexities of college preparation and career exploration.

Bringing Mentorship into the Digital Age

As many students face uncertainty about their educational journey, this collaboration aims to connect young individuals with corporate mentors who can offer personalized advice and support. Utilizing UStrive's advanced technology platform, mentors from Citizens will engage in virtual, one-on-one relationships with students across the nation. Each mentee will be paired with a dedicated mentor to foster continuous guidance, ultimately impacting around 300 students in their transitional phase from high school to adulthood.

Michael J. Carter, the visionary behind UStrive, emphasized the transformative power of mentorship. He stated, “At a time when students require additional support to navigate the post-high school landscape, mentorship becomes crucial. This partnership aims to forge connections that help youth envision their future positively while allowing professionals to make a meaningful contribution to the next generation.”

Addressing the Enrollment Gap

The urgency for such mentorship initiatives is underscored by alarming statistics. According to research from the National Student Clearinghouse, only 52.3% of graduates from low-income high schools pursued further education immediately after graduation, in stark contrast to 64.2% of their higher-income counterparts. UStrive's relationship-focused model aims to close this gap—boasting that over 90% of students matched with mentors enroll in college, and 92% of those continue into their second year of studies.

A Two-Way Street for Growth

For Citizens, this mentorship program extends beyond community service. It represents a strategic commitment to fostering growth both within the organization and the communities it serves. Participating mentors will not only guide students but will also experience personal and professional growth, enhancing their adaptability, communication, and leadership skills.

“Mentorship thrives on mutual learning,” says Susan LaMonica, Citizens' Chief Human Resources Officer. She believes this collaboration creates a unique opportunity for employees to make an impact on students’ lives while gaining invaluable perspectives that can enrich their careers.

Flexible, Accessible Mentoring

The structure of this program is designed for flexibility. Through UStrive's mentorship platform, mentors and students commit to a mentorship period of 9 to 12 months, engaging for just two to three hours each month. This virtual format enables meaningful relationships to flourish irrespective of geographical constraints, allowing students to seek assistance on everything from college applications and financial aid to career planning and job readiness.

A Broader Mission: Supporting Students Everywhere

UStrive's overarching objective is monumental: to reach over 4.5 million students, ensuring they successfully enroll in college, graduate, and secure well-paying jobs. The platform facilitates secure communication and resource sharing, empowering students throughout their journey in higher education. With 91% of Strive students accessing scholarships or funding—thanks to the guidance provided by their mentors—many find themselves graduating with little or no debt.

This collaboration between UStrive and Citizens exemplifies a deeper commitment to building a foundation for future leaders. As both organizations work together to mentor the upcoming generation, they are not just investing in individual futures but also shaping a more informed, skilled, and resilient workforce for the challenges of tomorrow. For additional information, visit UStrive and Citizens Bank.