iMentor builds mentoring relationships that empower first-generation students to graduate high school, succeed in college and career, and achieve their ambitions.

Values

  • Educational opportunity opens up a world of possibility.

    At the heart of our work is the belief that education is the pathway to success. We commit to continuous learning and aspire to model this as champions of iMentor's mission.

  • Relationships have the power to transform.

    We foster high commitment relationships between our mentors and mentees, our partners, and our staff. We seek to build a culture of transparency, humility and trust.

  • Human potential inspires us.

    We operate from a growth mindset, believing that with hard work, dedication, and support, we can develop in ways that bring us closer to achieving our goals.

  • Collaboration increases our impact.

    Our guiding principle is that we are better and stronger together. We recognize that we are at our best when we leverage diverse backgrounds, unique contributions, and many perspectives.

  • Excellence is achievable.

    We strive to be strategic and resourceful, working with passion, integrity and urgency. We hold ourselves accountable to measurable outcomes as a foundation of our work.

  • Joy sustains us.

    We aim to cultivate a sense of happiness and purpose every day.


History

iMentor was created in 1999 by John Griffin, founder of Blue Ridge Capital, and two public-interest lawyers, Richard Buery and Matt Klein. We launched our inaugural program with just 49 students in a single school in the South Bronx. Today, iMentor serves more than 10,000 students through our direct-service programs in New York City, Chicago, the Bay Area and Baltimore, and through our partnerships with local non-profit organizations that implement our model in 51 schools.