Minds Matter

Key words: Mentoring, Speaker, Workshop Leader, Fundraising

Minds Matter Bay Area (MMBay) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to higher education for high-achieving students from low-incoming backgrounds. Through a three-year, volunteer-driven program, MMBay provides mentorship, academic support, and access to transformative opportunities that help students gain admission to and graduate from Top 100 universities across the country.

By addressing college "undermatching," the underrepresentation of talented, low-income students at top institutions, MMBay equips students with the preparation, guidance, and community needed to realize their full potential and create pathways to long-term success.

• • How to Get Involved
    
    We've just launched a new site in San Jose/Santa Clara and are currently seeking dedicated volunteers to support its growth. Fellows who join now will play a key role in establishing a strong foundation for students in the region.
    
    Here are our current opportunities with greatest need:
    
    

    1. Mentors / Instructors: Volunteer as a mentor or instructor by building a consistent, supportive relationship with a student over the course of the program. Mentors guide students through academic challenges, college exploration, and personal growth, offering encouragement, accountability, and perspective. This role is ideal for individuals who are committed to showing up regularly, building trust, and helping students navigate the path to and through college.
       
       

    2. Site Operations & Program Experience Leads: We are seeking a small team of 3-4 highly organized and proactive volunteers to support the day-to-day operations of the program while helping to build a strong, connected community. This team will coordinate logistics, support program execution, and ensure a seamless experience for students and volunteers. In addition, they will lead team-building and engagement efforts, contributing to a positive, collaborative, and high-functioning program culture.
       
       

    3. Fundraising: Join our Associate Board to help sustain and grow our impact in the region. This may include contributing to donor engagement strategies, supporting events, and making introductions within your network. This is a strong fit for individuals who enjoy relationship-building and want to play a role in expanding access and opportunity at scale.
       
       

    4. Guest Speaker / Workshop Leader: Share your professional journey, skills, and insights with our students. Volunteers in this role lead sessions on topics such as career exploration, college readiness, personal storytelling, or skill-building (for example: writing, interviewing, or navigating new environments). This is an opportunity to offer real-world perspective, build confidence, and help students envision future pathways.

Minds Matter National: https://www.mindsmatter.org/ 

Minda Matter Bay Area: https://www.mindsmatterbay.org/ 

Contact: Whitney Flores, Executive Director
whitney.flores@mindsmatterbay.org
(415) 725-6116 (call or text)