Changing lives through mentorship.
Waymaker connects young people with volunteer mentors who help them grow, learn, and find their way forward.
How it Works
Apply
Tell us about your child's interests, goals, and what kind of support they need.
Get Matched
We pair them with a mentor whose expertise and personality fit their needs.
Meet & Grow
They work together at their own pace—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Find Their Way
Build skills, confidence, and clarity about their path forward.
What our mentorship helps with
Academics
Math, science, writing, test prep, study skills
College & Career
Applications, essays, resume building, career exploration
Athletics & Performance
Sports coaching, public speaking, performing arts
Life Skills & Direction
Finding passion and purpose, figuring out what's next
Creative & Entrepreneurial
Starting a business, creating art, building projects
Confidence
Building confidence, self-esteem, and vital skills
From Our Mentors’ Mentees
Mentorship changed my life.
“I can confidently say that Mason’s mentorship has changed my life. From day one, Mason has gone above and beyond to ensure my business succeeds. He has given me the tools and advice I needed to grow, not just as an entrepreneur, but as a person. I look up to Mason, and I am so fortunate to have found him.”
— Krishna P.
Taught me valuable life skills and lessons.
“Mason has helped me in countless ways—offering personal advice, organizing my cookie orders, and sharing innovative ideas to guide me toward my goals. He’s taught me valuable life skills that I hold close to my heart. I truly appreciate the opportunity to share about Mason’s amazing personality, his great sense of humor, and the positive impact he’s had on me. I’m especially thankful that our paths crossed—it’s been a privilege to know him.”
— Jayden F.
The best role model I could ask for.
“I’ve never connected with a mentor the way I’ve connected with Mason. To me, he’s a role model, a friend, and someone I can always turn to — whether I need advice, a laugh, or just a simple conversation. Even though he’s thousands of miles away he always feels close. I pray that Mason’s words of wisdom continue to reach others who need them, just as they have reached me. He is someone I will look up to for my entire life, and truly the best counselor and mentor I could have ever asked for.”
— Peyton C.
Investment
Pay What You Can
Suggested donation: $75 per session
We operate on a sliding scale based on family circumstances. Your investment supports mentor training, program materials, and scholarships for students who need them most.
No young person is turned away for inability to pay.
Become a Mentor
Change a life. Just 2-4 hours a month.
Our volunteer mentors come from all backgrounds—teachers, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, retirees, and college students. If you have a skill to share and care about young people, we need you.
What we provide:
✓ Training in mentorship best practices
✓ Ongoing support and mentor community
✓ Matching with 1-2 students who fit your expertise
✓ Flexible scheduling that works for your life
About Waymaker
Waymaker is a nonprofit organization based in Athens, Georgia, dedicated to connecting young people with caring mentors who help them discover their potential.
Founded by a lifelong mentor of young people, we believe mentorship changes lives. We also believe traditional education doesn’t help kids discover their potential (as it should).
We serve students ages 10-18 throughout the Athens area and beyond, with both in-person and virtual mentorship options.
Get Started Today
Ready to find the right mentor for your child?
Every young person has potential. Sometimes they just need someone to help them see it.
Stay in the loop.
Be the first to hear about free programming and other opportunities.
FAQs
For Families
How much does it cost?
Our suggested donation is $75 per session. We operate on a pay-what-you-can model with a sliding scale based on family circumstances. No one is turned away for inability to pay. Your contribution supports mentor training, program operations, and scholarships for students who need them most.
How long is each session?
Sessions are typically one hour. Some students and mentors find that 45 minutes or 90 minutes works better depending on the activity—that's something you can work out together.
How often will my child meet with their mentor?
That's flexible and based on your family's needs. Most students meet weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. The frequency can also change over time as needs evolve.
How long does mentorship last?
As long as it's helpful. Some students need a few months of focused support, while others build multi-year relationships with their mentors. There's no fixed timeline or contract—it lasts as long as the relationship is valuable.
What if my child changes interests or needs a different type of support?
That's completely normal and part of the process. If your child's needs evolve, we can re-match them with a different mentor whose expertise better fits their new direction.
What if my child and their mentor aren't a good fit?
We work hard to make great matches, but sometimes personalities just don't click. If that happens, we'll find a different mentor. Our goal is a relationship where your child feels heard, supported, and excited to show up.
Do you offer in-person or virtual mentorship?
Both! We match students and mentors based on location and preference. In-person mentorship is available in the Athens, GA area. Virtual mentorship is available anywhere.
Do you offer in-person or virtual mentorship?
Both! We match students and mentors based on location and preference. In-person mentorship is available in the Athens, GA area. Virtual mentorship is available anywhere.
What ages do you serve?
Both! We match students and mentors based on location and preference. In-person mentorship is available in the Athens, GA area. Virtual mentorship is available anywhere.
What if my child is neurodiverse or has special learning needs?
Many successful people are neurodiverse, and we're equipped to support diverse learners. During the application process, let us know about your child's learning style and any accommodations that help them thrive. We'll match them with a mentor who understands and celebrates their strengths.
How are mentors vetted?
All mentors complete an application, interview, training, and background check before being matched with students. We take safety seriously and only work with mentors who demonstrate genuine care, appropriate boundaries, and relevant expertise.
What happens in a typical session?
It depends on the student's goals. Sessions might involve working through math problems, brainstorming business ideas, practicing for a presentation, reviewing college essays, or simply talking through challenges and next steps. Mentors adapt to what the student needs.
Can my child have more than one mentor?
Absolutely. Some students work with different mentors for different areas—one for academics, another for athletics, etc. Just let us know during the application process.
Do you offer group programs or workshops?
Occasionally, yes. We run after-school cohorts and single-day workshops when there's interest and capacity. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
How do I pay?
After your child is matched, we'll send you an invoice at the end of each month based on the number of sessions attended. You can pay via credit card, bank transfer, or check.
What if we need to take a break or pause mentorship?
Life happens. Just let us know. You can pause anytime and resume when you're ready. There's no penalty or commitment beyond the current month.
For Mentors
How much time does mentoring require?
Most mentors commit to 2-4 hours per month—typically 1-2 students meeting for an hour each, twice a month. You set your schedule and availability.
Do I need to be an expert?
Not necessarily. You need to be competent and willing to guide. If you're good at something and can help a young person learn it, you're qualified. We're looking for people who care, not just credentials.
What if I've never mentored before?
That's fine. We provide 4 hours of training that covers mentorship best practices, how to structure sessions, appropriate boundaries, and the Waymaker methodology. You'll also have ongoing support from our team and mentor community.
Is this a paid position?
No, this is a volunteer role. All Waymaker mentors donate their time. In the future, we may explore compensating mentors, but currently this is service-driven.
What if I can't commit long-term?
We appreciate honesty. Even 3-6 months can make a meaningful impact on a student. Let us know your realistic availability during the application process.
Can I mentor virtually?
Yes. Many of our mentors work with students remotely via video call. This expands access for both mentors and students.
What if my student and I aren't connecting?
Reach out to us. Sometimes matches need adjustment. We'll work with you to either improve the relationship or re-match the student with someone else. No hard feelings—fit matters.
How are students matched with mentors?
We match based on the student's needs/interests and your expertise/availability. We also consider personality, communication style, and logistical factors like location and schedule.
What kind of support do mentors receive?
You'll have access to our team anytime you have questions. We also host monthly mentor gatherings where you can connect with other mentors, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate wins.
Do I need to create curriculum or lesson plans?
No. Sessions are student-led and flexible. Some mentors bring structured activities, others respond to what the student brings each week. We provide guidance during training on how to structure sessions effectively.
What if a student shares something concerning?
We cover this in training. You'll know how to respond to sensitive situations and when to involve Waymaker staff or appropriate professionals. Student safety is paramount.
Can I mentor more than one student?
Yes, if your schedule allows. Most mentors start with one student and add a second once they're comfortable.
What's the background check process?
After you're accepted, we'll send you a link to complete a background check through our partner service. It typically takes 3-7 days to process. We cover the cost.
What if I need to miss a session?
Just communicate with your student and their family to reschedule. Life happens—flexibility is built into the model.