The Power of Mentorship and Community Partnership: Celebrating Volunteer Mentor Terry Lewis
“Citizen Schools offers inspiration and makes real the endless possibilities to succeed because someone cares and invests in students’ lives.”
- Terry Lewis, Citizen Schools Volunteer Mentor
At Citizen Schools, we believe in the transformative power of mentorship and community partnerships. For 30 years, we’ve worked to close opportunity gaps by connecting students with caring adult mentors who share their time, expertise, and encouragement. This year, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary under the theme 30 Years of Learning Together, we are proud to spotlight one of our inspiring volunteers, Terry Lewis.
A Mentor Rooted in Service and Connection
Terry Lewis, based in Memphis, Tennessee, has always carried a passion for mentorship. Professionally, he works in the insurance industry, but outside of work, Terry has dedicated himself to creating spaces where young people can see their value, imagine possibilities for their futures, and build the skills to get there.
When Terry joined Citizen Schools, he came in with a powerful mindset: to get as involved as possible. His energy and enthusiasm quickly led to a partnership with a middle school teacher to lead a project on financial literacy. Together, they guided students through topics such as budgeting, savings accounts, credit, and planning for college. The project asked students to imagine what their financial future could look like if they started saving now—and how to manage independence and a sustainable lifestyle once they reached adulthood.
The impact was immediate. The classroom teacher had specifically requested a volunteer who reflected the students’ identities and experiences, so they could see themselves in someone leading the work. That initial spark of commonality, combined with Terry’s warmth and commitment, created an instant connection. As one staff member described it: “It truly was a match made in heaven.”
Investing in Students and Supporting Teachers
Terry’s partnership extended beyond students—it also provided support to educators. With Terry in the classroom, the teacher felt empowered to focus more deeply on engaging with students while Terry shared his real-world expertise. This collaboration modeled what true community-connected learning looks like: a synergy between educators, mentors, and students that benefits everyone involved. As Terry reflects:
“These investments enable critical exposure and experience, while helping students imagine how their lives are valuable for improving our world. It was truly an honor to serve and be a part of every minute of the engagements. There is no greater gratification than investing into the lives of others.”
His perspective perfectly captures the heart of our mission. Mentorship is not only about giving students skills, but also about helping them recognize the power and potential within themselves.
Closing the Mentoring Gap Together
Across America, 1 in 3 young people grow up without a mentor, leaving nearly 16 million youth without the guidance of a supportive adult outside their family. Terry’s story shows what can happen when that gap is filled—not only do students gain knowledge and confidence, but classrooms become stronger, teachers feel supported, and communities thrive.
That is the magic of Citizen Schools: bringing together volunteers like Terry with educators and students to create learning experiences that matter.
30 Years of Learning Together
As we celebrate three decades of impact, Terry’s story is a testament to how far we’ve come and the work that remains ahead. For 30 years, Citizen Schools has been guided by the belief that mentorship changes lives—not just for students, but for volunteers, teachers, and entire communities. Terry puts it best:
“I hope that you can join me as a volunteer at Citizen Schools… it will positively impact your life and the lives of those that you touch.”
We are grateful for Terry’s dedication and for all our volunteer mentors who embody the spirit of Learning Together. Here’s to the next 30 years of partnerships, mentorship, and life-changing learning experiences.