Mentors
Leadership for real life
High school mentors build leadership skills, explore careers in education, connect with experts in the field, and become educational and real-life role models for the next generation.
BORN IN PHILLY. SUPPORTING PHILLY.
High schoolers learn to lead. Elementary students learn to read.
M.A.R.S. pairs trained high school mentors with elementary students for small-group literacy experiences that build stronger readers, confident leaders, and connected school communities.
What makes M.A.R.S. different
Two communities of learners,
one program.
Our high-schoolers grow into the next generation of informed, educationally-engaged Philadelphia leaders by working with elementary students in growing their literacy skills and confidence to support their academic and personal growth.
Readers
Books that mirror their world
Students practice reading through activities that connect books to their identities, interests, and lived experiences to foster literacy growth and develop a love of reading.
Community
Rooted in Philadelphia
We partner with Philadelphia schools and neighborhoods to grow literacy in a student-centered model — building trust, collaboration, and lasting local impact.
Mission
Developing educational leaders. Building strong readers.
Vision
A future where every young leader thrives and every child reads with confidence, fostering a community of empowered and capable learners
Built with our partners.
M.A.R.S. grows through schools, community organizations, and local supporters who open their doors, schedules and hearts to our mentors and readers.