About
Garrett Mentors is a school-based nonprofit in Oakland that matches Garrett County elementary students with caring volunteer adults. Since 2008 it has paired children who could use a positive role model, referred by their teachers or school counselors, with mentors who meet them one-on-one at school.
How Mentoring Works
Each mentor visits their student once a week during lunch in a Garrett County public school. The two decide together how to spend the time, whether that is talking, playing games, reading or working on a small project. The focus is on friendship and social-emotional growth rather than tutoring, although mentors can lend a hand with schoolwork when it helps. Teachers and staff have reported improvements in behaviour, confidence, engagement and attendance among the students taking part.
Since 2024 officers from the Maryland Natural Resources Police have also volunteered as mentors through a partnership with the program.
Becoming a Mentor
Applications are accepted year-round, and new matches are made during the school year. Applying does not commit you to anything. Mentors complete a background check through Garrett County Public Schools, paid for by Garrett Mentors, agree to a code of conduct, and receive training, an orientation and ongoing support once they are matched.
Scholarship and Recognition
Garrett Mentors established the Admiral Richard B. Schiff Memorial Scholarship in 2016. Administered by the Garrett College Foundation, it supports Garrett County residents attending Garrett College, with preference given to former Garrett Mentors students. The organisation's Joan Johnson Inspiration Award, given since 2014, honours community members and, since 2025, former mentees as well.
Garrett Mentors is a 501(c)(3) charity, and you can donate online through its website or by mail to P.O. Box 725 in Oakland. If you have one lunch hour a week to give, it is a simple way to make a difference for a local child.
Address
Oakland, MD 21550