Why Mentoring Matters

What does it take to change the trajectory of a young person’s life?

Sometimes, it starts with one conversation.

At Think Big for Kids, mentorship is more than guidance. It’s one of the most powerful ways we help students build confidence, discover their potential, and prepare for successful careers. As one of the three pillars of our program model, mentoring gives students something every young person deserves: a trusted adult who believes in them.

Our mentors are paired with high school students based on shared career interests and commit to meeting at least once a month for a year. Through those conversations, students gain far more than career advice. They receive encouragement, accountability, and practical guidance as they navigate high school, explore career pathways, strengthen communication skills, and prepare for life after graduation.

Think Big mentors also help students develop the professional and interpersonal skills that employers value – from problem-solving and goal setting to confidence and resilience. Most importantly, they create a safe space where students can ask questions, overcome challenges, and envision a future filled with opportunity.

A Think Big Mentor Perspective

For Elizabeth Matlaga, CEO of A+ Products and a member of the Think Big for Kids New Jersey Advisory Board, mentoring has been one of the most rewarding ways to give back.

“My goal is to make my student’s life better than it would have been without our mentoring connection,” she shares. “Together, we’ve created a plan for her future success. I encourage her, celebrate her achievements, and support her every step of the way. Think Big’s hands-on approach to mentoring proves that small steps truly lead to big impacts.”

The impact doesn’t stop with our students. Mentors often tell us they learn just as much from the experience, gaining fresh perspectives while helping shape the next generation of leaders.

Every meaningful relationship has the potential to open doors, inspire confidence, and create lasting change. That’s the power of mentoring, and it’s why it remains at the heart of everything we do.

If you’re passionate about helping a young person discover their future, we’d love to have you join our mentor community. Together, we can create opportunities that last a lifetime. Click on this form to get started.