Minds Matter Portland, chartered in 2006, is a chapter of a New York based educational organization that provides supplementary tutoring and mentoring on Saturdays for highly motivated, economically disadvantaged sophomore, junior, and senior high school students who aspire to attend a four year university. Students receive instruction and practice in writing, mathematics, study skills, and critical thinking. The curriculum also includes formal SAT instruction, career panels, debate, and resume workshops. Each student is paired with two college educated mentors from the Portland business, professional, and educational community. Our program aims to serve approximately 50 high school students every year through the hardworking support of typically 80 volunteers who focus on mentorship, curriculum, administration, logistics, and fundraising.
In addition to providing academic instruction, Minds Matter helps sophomores and juniors apply for college and prep school summer programs. Such programs bolster academic records, inspire career aspirations, and provide an introduction to the experience of attending college. For high school seniors, Minds Matter assists in their college and financial aid application processes. This support includes college guidance counseling, essay writing, and navigating financial aid paperwork.
Minds Matter Portland is volunteer driven and supported by generous cash and in-kind donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Donations are used to fund formal education, and tuition and travel expenses associated with the students’ summer college prep programs. Our program is the recipient of generous pro-bono legal, financial, and facility contributions from Tonkon Torp, Perkins & Co, and St. Andrew Nativity School.
As a national organization, Minds Matter is driven by our mission to bring determined high school students from families with limited financial means together with dedicated mentors to achieve academic excellence and expand educational and life horizons.