20/10 Mentorship Program
The 20/10 Vision Mentoring Program connects justice-involved youth with Austin Peay student mentors through structured, one-on-one guidance, academic support, and exposure to higher education and campus life.
Created in partnership with Montgomery County Juvenile Court, the program is designed to reduce recidivism, build resilience, and expand life opportunities for vulnerable young people.
“Without these spectacles, I go from 20/10 to something terrible. 20/10 Vision is the program designed to correct figurative vision. You think of an adolescent with a still developing pre-frontal cortex, maybe some issues at home, maybe the absence of a parent or some other environmental factors involved, and then you throw in some bad choices... you have a need for some corrective vision.”Dr. Jeff Thompson, Social Work
on the meaning behind the “20/10” program name
Support the *NEW* 20/10 Scholarship
Now entering its next chapter, the 20/10 program seeks donor support to establish endowed scholarships for past mentees who demonstrate perseverance, personal growth, and a commitment to building a brighter future as an Austin Peay State University student.
Your investment helps transform mentorship into long-term impact through college access, degree completion, and productive community leadership.
Ways to Support
Those interested in supporting the 20/10 scholarship may give online or mail a check to:
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Austin Peay State University |
Give Online |
Wanted: Student Mentors at APSU
The success of this mentorship program depends upon Austin Peay college students committed to supporting and guiding a young person for a period of at least one semester.
By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about local youth, the mentor can help them develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.
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Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, two-to-one partnership
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Serve as a positive role model
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Build the partnership by planning and participating in activities together
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Encourage positive self-esteem and motivation
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Build mutual respect
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Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them
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Be at least 19 years old and in the sophomore year group and beyond
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Currently majoring in Sociology, Social Work, Psychology, or Criminal Justice
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Be interested in working with young people
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Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures
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Be willing to complete the application and screening process
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Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments
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Attend mentor training sessions as prescribed
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Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information, and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities
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Have a clean criminal history
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No use of illicit drugs
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No use of alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner
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Not currently in treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years
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Not currently in treatment for a mental disorder or hospitalized for such in the past three years
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No meeting in the dorm rooms
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Make a 1 hour per week commitment
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Complete a weekly mentor check in report
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Attend an initial two-hour training session, bi-weekly zoom meetings with Dr. Pica, a mid-semester review, and end of semester celebration.
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Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events
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Personal fulfillment through contribution to the community and individuals
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Satisfaction in helping youth mature, progress, and achieve goals
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Training sessions and group activities
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Participation in a mentor program support group
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Mentee/mentor group activities, complimentary tickets to community events, participant recognition
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Complete the Online Application
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Criminal history check: state, child abuse and neglect registry, sexual offender registry
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Follow-up Questions by Dr. Pica, if needed
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Attend mentor training and follow-up when applicable
Questions?
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Austin Peay State University Liaison Emily Pica, Ph.D. Austin Peay State University |
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Montgomery County Juvenile Court Liaison Edward Moss Montgomery County Juvenile Court |