(Buffalo, NY) – Compeer of Greater Buffalo, the only organization in Western New York dedicated to recovery through the healing power of friendship, announced today that the organization, through a collaboration with Say Yes Buffalo, received a $25,000 grant from The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to conduct a unique mentoring program with low income high school seniors currently enrolled in a City of Buffalo public or charter school.

“Our team will utilize these grant funds to match 50 students with volunteer, working professional, mentors,” stated Timothy Boling, Executive Director, Compeer Inc. “Many of these identified students could be the first members of their families to attend college and now, because of the generous support of the Community Foundation, we will now be able to ensure they are equipped with the tools to apply to colleges, apply for financial aid, select a college to attend and prepare for the transition from high school to college.”

A key component to the program will be recruiting working professionals to become volunteer mentors to the students. Compeer and Say Yes staff will recruit, properly vet, train, and orient volunteers. Based on the backgrounds, life experiences, interests, and desires of both the scholars and volunteers, matches will then take place. Once matched, the students and volunteers will continue to receive support, resources, and guidance from Compeer and Say Yes staff. Both mentors and mentees will be required to make a minimum of an 18-month time commitment.

To learn more please visit http://sayyesbuffalo.org/supports/scholar-mentoring-program/ or contact Daniel Colpoys at daniel@compeerbuffalo.org or 716.883.3331 ext. 308.