When it comes to changing lives, Communities In Schools of Houston (CIS) doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk, partners with schools, and mentors students every step of the way. As January ushers in National Mentoring Month, this powerhouse nonprofit takes center stage to shine a light on the life-altering impact of mentorship. Spoiler alert: It’s not just about test scores—it’s about shaping futures.

 Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston.

 

A Mentorship Powerhouse Serving Houston’s Youth

Think of CIS as the ultimate team captain for Houston’s youth. Operating on 135 campuses across five school districts, plus charter schools and Lone Star College, CIS is the safety net every student deserves but doesn’t always have. Their secret weapon? Full-time Student Support Managers (SSMs) who embody the perfect blend of counselor, life coach, and cheerleader.

From academic support to workforce readiness, these SSMs provide services that are as diverse as the challenges students face—poverty, mental health struggles, and the ever-daunting academic pressures. Need help navigating school or life? CIS has you covered with referrals to over 250 community partners, including social service agencies and mental health providers.

Lisa Descant, CEO of CIS of Houston and a licensed professional counselor, knows the stakes. “Our Student Support Managers and volunteers are the unsung heroes. They bring hope to students who may feel overlooked or overwhelmed. The magic of mentorship lies in its ability to transform challenges into stepping stones,” Descant shares.

 Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston
 

Mentorship by the Numbers: Why It Matters

Here’s a pro tip from the experts at Youth.gov: close, caring relationships with mentors can flip the script for struggling students. CIS has the data to back it up:

• Higher graduation rates? Check.
• Lower dropout rates? Absolutely.
• Better relationships, healthier lifestyles, and boosted self-esteem? That’s the CIS playbook in action.

Through mentorship, students build stronger bonds with parents, teachers, and peers, proving that success isn’t just about academics—it’s about holistic growth.

More Than a Feel-Good Story—It’s a Movement

Mentorship at CIS goes beyond the paid professionals. Their robust volunteer program pairs caring adults with students who need extra TLC, whether it’s catching up in algebra or finding emotional stability in tough times.

“Mentorship is the gift that keeps on giving,” Descant explains. “It’s not just about academic success; it’s about showing students that they’re not alone and that their dreams matter.”

Whether you’re an algebra whiz, a great listener, or simply someone who believes in paying it forward, CIS is calling on Houston to step up. Because while January might be National Mentoring Month, the need for mentors never expires.

 Celix Cortez and Zoe Velasquez_Spring Woods HS/ Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston. 

How You Can Be a Hero Without a Cape

Becoming a mentor is as easy as clicking a link. Head over to www.cishouston.org to explore volunteer opportunities. Not ready to volunteer? Spread the word! Every conversation about mentorship is a step toward building a stronger community.

Houston, it’s time to invest in our future—one student, one story, one mentor at a time. Let’s make National Mentoring Month more than a celebration; let’s make it a movement.

 Miriam_Port Houston Students/ Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston.