When Brent was in 8th grade, he saw a sign reading “Join Breakfast Club" hanging in the hallway of his middle school. Brent decided to take a chance and he signed up.
Breakfast Club is a before-school mentorship program for 8th graders, designed to help students prepare for a successful transition into high school. For many, this transition can be challenging. Some students struggle, disengage, or even drop out. But Breakfast Club mentors provide guidance, support, and encouragement, helping students build the confidence to thrive.
Brent was matched with his mentor, Jim, a member of United Way of Lake County’s Leaders United group. Each session, they connected over homework, hobbies, friends, and sports. Brent, a huge football fan, especially loved talking strategy and games with Jim.
When I met with Jim, it felt like I was in a cocoon. It was protected time. If I was feeling off that day, the meeting helped me prepare for my day ahead.
For Jim, watching Brent grow was inspiring.
“Throughout the year, Brent started talking more and more about wanting to help others. Seeing him now take on leadership roles while in high school makes me proud,” Jim says.
Brent’s journey didn’t stop in middle school. Today, he’s excelling in high school, earning A’s and B’s, and preparing for college. He tutors elementary students, participates in ROTC community outreach supporting veterans, and is an active member of Becoming a Man (BAM), a program helping young men prepare for adulthood.
Brent’s path came full circle when he returned to Breakfast Club—not as a student, but as a mentor welcoming the next group of 8th graders. He also spoke at a Leaders United event, encouraging adults to volunteer so more students can benefit from the program.
“Breakfast Club mentors help kids who are in hard spots in life. They help them feel good about themselves. Kids who are in a bad place sometimes get passed by. Mentors help kids feel cared for and inspire us to do better,” Brent says.
Brent’s story shows the power of mentorship: one caring adult can spark confidence, ignite a desire to give back, and create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the classroom.