ECC seeks mentors for college readiness program

Elgin Community College is seeking mentors for its Transitions Academy, a college readiness program for high school students.

Volunteer mentors support and build positive relationships with high school students for at least one academic semester. Mentors must commit a total of eight hours for a six-month period.

"We want to empower students to make positive academic and life choices to maximize their potential to attend college," said DeSean Coleman Sr., manager of ECC's Upward Bound Program. "The Transitions Academy depends on volunteers to help guide these students."

Each volunteer mentor is required to attend the mentor training and meet eligibility screening requirements. The Transitions Academy class starts Saturday with mentor orientation from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

The program builds on the ECC's existing summer bridge program. The Transitions Academy uses a three-pronged approach focusing on areas of academic achievement, parent and supportive adult engagement, and student motivation.

Mentors interact with students, referred to as "scholars," each Saturday for a period of at least two academic semesters. There also will be a summer "bridge" experience and an adult volunteer mentor for each student.

For more information, call (847) 214-6942.