Onward We Learn·Providence, Rhode Island
The Program Mentor provides consistent mentorship and facilitates after-school and weekend programming to help students build confidence and college readiness. They support students with academic growth, goal setting, and the college application process while maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.
Description Organizational Overview We’re thrilled you’re considering Onward We Learn as an employer.
Since 1989, Onward We Learn has worked to inspire and prepare young people in Rhode Island to be the first in their families to attend and complete college. Nearly four decades later, that mission remains at the heart of everything we do.
As we look toward the future, Onward We Learn is entering an exciting new chapter. In late 2025, our Board of Directors approved a two-year strategic plan focused on strengthening our impact, deepening collaboration, and building a more responsive and sustainable organization.
As part of this organizational realignment, we’re hiring for several new and reimagined roles at once. These openings reflect intentional growth and investment in our future. We’re building a strong, people-centered, mission-driven team equipped to support students and families for years to come.
This is an exciting moment to join Onward We Learn. We are proud of the strong culture we’ve built – one rooted in mission, collaboration, care, and continuous learning, and we’re looking for passionate people who want to help shape what comes next.
The Program Mentor plays a vital role in helping students at Onward We Learn build the confidence, skills, and sense of belonging they need to thrive in high school, college, and beyond.
Through consistent mentorship, engaging program facilitation, and meaningful relationship-building, mentors create a safe, welcoming environment where students feel supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their goals.
Working as part of the Programs & Opportunities Team, mentors facilitate afterschool and weekend programming, adapt activities to meet students' needs, encourage active participation, and reinforce key program themes such as leadership, community, academic growth, and college access.
They serve as trusted role models who foster positive relationships while helping students develop the confidence to navigate new opportunities and challenges.
Successful mentors are dependable, adaptable, and student-centered.
They take initiative while collaborating closely with program staff, communicate observations that support students' overall success, and approach each interaction with professionalism, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.
This is a part-time, seasonal position (mid-August through May) with a guaranteed minimum of 16 hours per week and a maximum of 20 hours per week. This role may be a great fit for an upperclassman in college or a recent college grad looking to build more experience in education and college access.
Required Minimum of 2 years of college completed. Experience with K-12 education, youth development, or a similar field. A minimum of 1 year of experience working with middle school or high school students. Familiarity with the needs of under-represented and first-generation students. Exceptional written, oral, and presentation skills with the ability to effectively communicate with students, staff, and external stakeholders. Ability to work independently and with a team. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to think outside the box to find solutions. Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, and Excel) and able to learn and effectively use the latest software and technology systems employed by Onward. Commitment to Onward We Learn's mission, values, and strategic objectives. Available to work weekend and evening hours as needed for program support and special initiatives. Reliable access to transportation.
Preferred Bachelor's or associate degree completed Comfort with different modes of learning Fluency in a second language relevant to Onward We Learn's student population
Market context
In Rhode Island, Program Mentor roles are often tied to student support and retention efforts, so demand tends to follow schools and programs focused on middle and high school engagement. These roles are competitive because employers look for candidates with college experience, direct work with adolescents, Microsoft 365 proficiency, and a clear commitment to supporting first-generation and under-represented students. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to show relevant student-support experience and comfort with digital tools.