Prevention of poverty includes PATH's Kid Reach. Kid Reach matches school-based and community-based mentors to children at risk. Mentoring has been proven to help at-risk children overcome the many challenges they face, including breaking the cycle of poverty.

Kid Reach directs mentoring and educational programs for the children. These programs are volunteer driven, anyone interested in mentoring children can choose from the following opportunities:

Community-Based Mentoring mentors children by matching an adult volunteer with an at-risk child from disadvantaged circumstances. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, with a desire to have fun and spend time with a child. Time commitment is minimal and free special events are planned throughout the year.

School-Based Mentoring matches volunteers with elementary and middle school aged children identified by school counselors as needing a special friend. Volunteers meet with the student 1 hour per week. Mentors do not provide counseling, but do set goals, study, improve attitudes, social skills and build self-esteem. A mentor is a friend and role model who can positively impact and change the child's attitude toward education.

Applications for mentors and mentees are available in pdf format [requires the free adobe acrobat reader]. For more information or questions concerning any of the Kid Reach program, please contact Pam McGee at (903) 597.4044, ext. 121, or Rand Huzenlaub, ext. 112.