Journey Forward Mentoring’s mission is to inspire and guide students to excel in school, progress in
their careers, and contribute to their communities, through the power of mentoring. We provide
programming and support for high school and postsecondary students that have historically lacked
access to higher education. We first engage with students in high school, through our Next Gen
program, pairing each participant with an adult volunteer mentor. Mentors help our students
navigate high school, explore higher education and different career paths, and improve their
understanding of what information, resources, and opportunities exist to better ensure their
success. When our students graduate, they are invited to join Edge, our postsecondary bridge
program. While pursuing their higher education, students receive continued mentoring through
group coaching, participate in social gatherings to help create community and a sense of
belonging, and receive a stipend to help them achieve their degree or credential.
Our programs are designed to provide a comprehensive solution to increasing access to, and
success within, higher education and well-paying career paths for our students. Next Gen provides
high school students the tools they need to graduate from high school and be prepared for higher
education. Edge builds upon the strong relationships we have established, helps our students
develop 21st century career readiness skills, and provides our students with the edge to succeed.