Escambia
County Public Schools
Ready to Make a Difference?
Becoming a Take Stock Mentor means helping a student stay focused, graduate high school, and reach their college dreams.
Become a MentorI became a mentor because I saw the need and knew I could make time for such an amazing program. From the very first meeting, my mentee asked to see me weekly—and that meant more to me than she’ll ever know. Being a mentor has shown me the real difference one person can make.
— NeRissa Bates, Realtor, LPT Realty
What is a
Mentor?
men·tor
/men-tôr; men-ter/
noun
a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.
an influential supporter who offers guidance and encouragement.
SYNONYMS:
adviser, coach, guide, instructor, teacher, trainer, tutor, counselor
verb (used without object)
to act as a mentor.
She spent years mentoring junior employees.
verb (used with object)
to act as a mentor to.
The student was mentored by the guidance counselor.
0 Students
Successfully serviced since 1995
0+
Middle & High
School Students
School Students
Attending 814 Florida Public Schools
0+
Postsecondary
Scholars
Scholars
Attending Florida’s 40 public colleges and universities
0
Mentors
Take Stock mentors have collectively completed 3,145,860 volunteer mentor hours.
$0 Million
Florida Prepaid Foundation Projects STARS College Scholarships
484 Students
Students served across Escambia County since 2001
484
Middle & High
School Students
School Students
Students served across Escambia County since 2001
190+
Postsecondary
Scholars
Scholars
At Florida public colleges & universities
142
Active Mentors
Active volunteer mentors in the county
$3.2 Million
Scholarship dollars supporting Escambia County students
Program Impact
2024–25 Accountability Report
Click HereWhat is a Take Stock Mentor?
- A trusted guide or friend
- A caring, compassionate adult
- A volunteer
- A positive role model who will listen
What does a Take Stock Mentor do?
- Listens to understand without judgement, finding the Scholar where they are
- Guides and encourages focus on long-term goals
- Meets weekly at school (at least three times per month) or virtually through the TSIC App
How do I become a Take Stock Mentor?
- Submit Take Stock & ECSD applications
- Complete interview & background check
- Attend new mentor training
- Get matched and start meeting!
What are the Requirements and Commitments?
- Screening: District application & fingerprinting/background check required.
- Commitment: Full school-year; reliable communication by email/phone.
- Time: 30-45 minutes/week during the school day; minimum 15 sessions per school year.
- Training: Engage in ongoing Take Stock support & mentor resources
⭐ Mentor Spotlight: NeRissa Bates ⭐
NeRissa is a Realtor and community leader who has mentored for 3 years — she’s passionate about giving back and guiding young scholars toward success.
Q: Why did you decide to become a mentor?
“I became a mentor because there was a need, and I knew I could make time for such an amazing organization. I first learned about Take Stock in Children at the new mentor dinner celebration as a guest with the Pensacola Optimist Club. Mrs. Sally made an appeal for mentors, and after hearing the students’ speeches and seeing so many success stories from past scholars, I knew I wanted to sign up.”
Q: What has the mentoring experience meant to you personally?
“I know that I am making a difference. My mentee looks forward to our time together and tells me often how much she appreciates it. At first, I was nervous, but halfway through our first visit we clicked. I remember asking if she wanted to meet weekly or every other week, and she quickly said, ‘Weekly!’ That meant more to me than she will ever know.”
Q: How long have you been a mentor with Take Stock in Children?
“This is my third year as a mentor.”
Q: What is your current profession and community involvement?
“I am a Realtor with LPT Realty on Team Bates. I previously served as a Reading Pal with Ready Kids for 3.5 years and was an Engagement Board member with Valerie’s House. Within the Pensacola Association of Realtors (PAR), I serve on the Commercial Alliance Committee as Vice Chair, Young Professionals Network, and the Community Relations Committee. I’ve been nominated for a Board of Directors position and am the incoming Treasurer of the Women’s Council of Realtors Pensacola Bay Area.”
“NeRissa leads by example — her kindness, consistency, and community spirit make her an outstanding mentor.”
— Take Stock in Children of Escambia County