About Us
Mentoring youth
Mentoring and Academic Support That Makes a Difference
Working in Leadership Development (WILD Inc.) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, advocating for, and providing resources that strengthen mentoring and mentoring initiatives throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.
We believe that close, healthy, and supportive relationships between mentors and mentees can make a lasting difference in a young person's academic, personal, and social development. Our mentoring relationships are designed to continue throughout the school year, providing students with consistency, encouragement, and the support of a trusted adult.
Each mentor meets with their mentee for one hour each week throughout the school year, providing approximately 40 hours of direct mentoring contact. This consistent connection gives mentors and mentees the opportunity to build trust, develop meaningful relationships, and work together toward the student's individual goals.
A Mentor Is a Friend and Supporter
WILD Inc. takes a relationship-centered approach to mentoring. The mentor's role is not to be the student's teacher or preacher, but rather to serve as a friend, positive role model, trusted supporter, and encourager.
Mentors support young people in their various endeavors by:
- Listening and providing encouragement
- Building trust and positive relationships
- Supporting academic and personal goals
- Encouraging positive decision-making
- Helping students recognize their strengths and potential
- Providing guidance and accountability
- Celebrating progress and accomplishments
- Encouraging students to persevere through challenges
Our mentors don't have to have all the answers. They simply need to be willing to show up, listen, encourage, and walk alongside a young person as they learn, grow, and pursue their goals.
Academic Support
Mentoring is strengthened through academic support that helps students remain engaged, develop confidence, and work toward their educational goals. WILD Inc. connects students with mentors, tutors, and supportive adults who encourage academic growth while helping young people develop the skills they need to become successful and independent learners.
Academic support may include:
- Homework assistance
- Tutoring and academic enrichment
- Study skills and organization
- Goal setting and accountability
- Encouragement and motivation
- Support with academic challenges
- Individualized assistance based on student needs
At WILD Inc., we believe one consistent, caring relationship can help a young person see what is possible—and believe that they can achieve it.
Why should I become a Mentor?
The Power of Mentoring
Mentoring, at its core, assures young people that someone cares about them.
It reminds them that they do not have to face the challenges of everyday life alone and helps them understand that they are seen, valued, heard, and important.
For many young people, having a consistent and caring adult in their corner can make a meaningful difference. A mentor provides encouragement, listens without judgment, celebrates accomplishments, offers support during difficult moments, and helps young people recognize their own strengths and potential.
At WILD Inc., we believe mentoring is more than spending time together. It is about building trust, creating connection, and helping young people know that they matter.
Through consistent mentoring relationships, we strive to help every young person feel supported, empowered, and confident as they learn, grow, and pursue their goals.
Because sometimes knowing that someone cares can be the beginning of believing in yourself.
Get Involved!!!!!!!
Get Involved. Make a Difference.
There are many ways to support a young person's journey.
Whether you want to make a financial contribution, volunteer your time, become a mentor, or learn more about our programs, you can help WILD Inc. make a difference in the lives of young people throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.
FIND OUT MORE
Learn about our programs, services, and opportunities to get involved.
DONATE
Your contribution helps provide mentoring, academic support, and opportunities that help young people learn, grow, and succeed.
VOLUNTEER
Share your time, talents, and experience to support students and strengthen our programs.
BECOME A MENTOR
Be the consistent, caring adult who listens, encourages, supports, and reminds a young person that they matter.
Connect With WILD Inc.
Working in Leadership Development (WILD Inc.)
3963 West Belle Place
St. Louis, MO 63108
Phone: 314-952-6169
Email: mentoringmatters@wildinc.org
Learn More. Donate. Volunteer. Mentor.
Together, we can help young people discover their potential and build stronger futures.