As pumpkins line porches and the crisp air signals the arrival of the holiday season, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible circle of care surrounding our youth. Whether you are a parent, guardian, teacher, or mentor…your time, patience, and presence have helped shape not just bright students—but resilient young people learning how to shine in their own right.

So before the holiday rush sweeps us away, we want to pause and say: THANK YOU!

This season often comes with packed schedules, last-minute to-do lists, and endless events. Yet, despite the hustle and bustle, our mentors continue to show up with intention (and that matters more than words can express). Your presence is a gift. Whether it’s a short check-in, a coffee conversation, or simply being a consistent face in a busy world, you are planting seeds of confidence, connection, and care that will outlast the holidays.

One Mentor’s Presence Made All the Difference

We want to take a moment to spotlight a shining example in our mentoring community: Lisa Smith.

When Lorchely was invited to speak at an event one Saturday in October, her mentor, Lisa, didn’t hesitate—she rearranged her schedule and showed up in the audience to cheer her on. For Lisa, it was a small gesture; for Lorchely, it meant the world. Her mentor’s presence reminded her that she wasn’t standing on that podium alone, but on the shoulders of those who believe in her.

Sometimes the most powerful support is simply showing up.

Mentors like Lisa remind us that impact doesn’t require grand gestures—just presence, patience, and purpose.

How to Support Teens Through the Holiday Season

1. Make space, not speeches. When teens share stress or frustration, resist the urge to solve it right away. Sometimes, “That sounds hard. Tell me more,” is the support they need most.

2. Help them name what matters. Teens often say “I’m overwhelmed” because everything feels equal in urgency. Gently help them list priorities (and what can wait until January).

3. Model reflection. Share what you’ve learned from your own mistakes or moments of change this year. Teens learn more from your honesty than your perfection.

4. Encourage real rest. Rest isn’t earned by productivity. It’s a part of health. Remind them they don’t have to earn their worth.

Our Mentor Family Is Growing!

We are excited to welcome our new mentors:

Pamela Morrone

Salome Mondelus

Sylke Lopez

Carole Park

Andrew Greenspan

Jodi Cohen

Robert Slydell

Marta Leary

Esra Jaabo

Christine Jax

Maneesha Bhalla

Emilia Mihel

Ashley Cacicedo-Surdovel

Lee Tannenbaum

Michael Ascher

Denise Shliva

Jaycie Tate

Robert Snedker

Nicole Nudelman

Kerry Berchtold

Learn more about becoming a mentor!

Get Ready for an Evening of Connection and Confidence

As we look toward the new year, we’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Speed Interview Night—an energizing, inspiring evening designed to connect mentors and mentees in fun, meaningful conversation.

🗓 Date: December 5, 2025

📍 Location: Palm Beach Post Centennial Park

⏰ Time: 5 pm

This event is a great way for prospective mentors to jump in, for mentees to expand their networks, and for our entire community to come together with a shared purpose.

Whether you’re already part of our mentor family or considering joining, this is your chance to show up, share, and shape stories that matter.

Save the Date…

Mark your calendar!

As a valued member of our mentoring community, we’d love for you to join us at the Shine & Dine Gala — an evening celebrating the students you support, the mentors who lift them up, and the community that makes these journeys possible.

To thank you for the time and heart you invest all year long, mentors receive 10% off their ticket with the promo code MENTOR10.

Even if you’re unable to attend, you can still be part of the celebration by helping us spread the word or cheering on our honorees online. Your presence (in any form) means more than you know.

Grab Your Ticket!

Thank You for Lighting the Path

We’re thankful for you. For every encouraging word, every rescheduled appointment to make time for mentoring, and every thoughtful gesture that reminds a young person they are seen and valued. Your efforts are building a legacy of connection, and we are honored to walk alongside you in this journey.

Wishing you and your loved ones peace, rest, and moments of meaningful connection this holiday season.

With heartfelt appreciation,

-The Path to College Team