VISTA Community Impact Coordinator

The Mentoring Project primarily serves students enrolled in Washington’s Community and Technical College (CTC) system, where campuses often lack the career centers, alumni networks, and employer connections commonly available at four-year universities. As a result, many students have limited opportunities to build professional networks, explore career pathways, and understand how their education connects to future employment.

This need is particularly significant for the students we serve. Approximately 80% are first-generation college students who may not have family or social networks that can provide career modeling, professional guidance, or industry connections. In addition, many students attend colleges located in rural or economically underserved areas of Washington, where there are fewer local STEM employers, internships, networking opportunities, and opportunities to interact with professionals working in STEM fields.

When students were asked about their top 5 needs when registering for The Mentoring Project and one-to-one mentoring, the vast majority (66%) reported seeking support to better connect their education to career opportunities. Our students struggle with finding educational purpose and understanding how their degree will leverage a living wage job and economic opportunity. Students also identified needs related to professional networking, career guidance, and exposure to industry professionals.

These findings directly align with the purpose of The Mentoring Project, which provides students with individualized mentorship, professional insight, and meaningful connections that help bridge the gap between education and employment.

• Build sustainable outreach systems to increase recruitment and engagement of low‑income students.
• Develop tools, materials, and processes to expand and sustain a volunteer mentor network supporting student success.
• Establish and strengthen partnerships with college student service professionals.
• Improve outcome tracking and feedback systems to strengthen program evaluation.
• Create communications materials to promote mentorship opportunities and career exploration events.
• Participate in grant‑writing and development activities.

• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Health Coverage*
• Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend
• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Living Allowance
• Training
• Relocation Allowance

• Non‑Profit Management
• Communications
• Teaching/Tutoring
• Team Work
• Education
• Writing/Editing
• Social Services
• Community Organization
• Fund raising/Grant Writing
• Recruitment
• Leadership