Baylor Buddies is a mentorship program that connects Baylor students with at-risk elementary, middle and high school students in the Waco community. Our mission is to provide encouragement and positive role models to help these students stay engaged in their education and personal growth.
Who can be a Baylor Buddy?
Any Baylor student with a passion for service! As a Baylor Buddy, you’ll be a friend and mentor figure while building meaningful relationships with your mentee/Buddy. The program runs throughout the academic year, from September to May.
What do I do with my Buddy & When do we meet?
You’ll meet up during their school day (between 8 AM and 3 PM) at a time that works for both of you. Each session lasts 45 minutes to an hour, and what you do is totally up to you and your Buddy!
Want to battle it out in an intense game of Uno? Go for it. Feeling crafty? Make some awesome friendship bracelets. Just want to chill and talk about life? That works too! Whether you're cracking jokes, sharing stories, or unleashing your inner artist, every meetup is a chance to have fun, be a role model, and make a real impact—all while making a new friend.
Why should I join Baylor Buddies?
Joining Baylor Buddies is not just about mentorship; it's about changing lives, including your own. Imagine being that person who brings hope, encouragement, and joy into a child's world. Many of these kids need someone to believe in them, to show up consistently, and remind them that they are seen, valued, and capable of achieving great things. That someone could be you.
Baylor Buddies is about building relationships that matter. It's about laughter, shared stories, and moments that will stay with you forever. It's about being a source of light and positivity for a child who doesn't have very many role models. But here's the secret from our mentors: while you're making a difference in your Buddy's life, they will change yours too. They will teach you about resiliency, joy in little things, and the power of simply being. You will leave that experience with a fuller heart, stronger character, and moments that will be etched in your memory forever.
By joining Baylor Buddies, you are entering into a community of students who want to make an impact. You're stepping into something bigger than yourself: a movement of love, encouragement, and transformation. This is your chance to be that person who changes a life. Will you take it?
How do I apply?
- Application Form - Download the attached application form and email it to baylorbuddies.mentor@gmail.com.
- Orientation → Orientation is a requirement, and it will take 30-45 minutes. During which time, you will:
- Learn the ins and outs of the program: guidelines and expectations.
- Get some great mentoring strategies.
- Leave confident, prepared, and excited to make a difference!
- Background Checks → Following orientation, you’ll need to complete two background checks—an essential step to ensure the safety and well-being of our mentees.
- Connect with Your Site Coordinator → Once your background checks are processed, your site coordinator will provide details about your assigned Buddy, meeting schedule, and next steps. You’ll meet with your Buddy once a week for about an hour during school hours (8 AM - 3 PM). These sessions may include games, crafts, conversations, or other activities designed to foster a meaningful and positive mentorship experience.