Mentorship Program

Supporting People. Strengthening Community. Changing Lives.

At Branches for the Lake, we believe that when you invest in people, you strengthen the entire community.

Our Mentorship Program was created to support individuals—especially young people ages 16–25—who are ready to move forward but may lack the guidance, resources, or support to do so.

We focus on identifying real needs and creating real solutions—one person at a time.

AmeriCorps Lake of the Ozarks
AmeriCorps Lake of the Ozarks
AmeriCorps Lake of the Ozarks
AmeriCorps Lake of the Ozarks

Who We Serve

We work with individuals who may be facing:

  • Gaps in education or academic support
  • Limited access to transportation or employment opportunities
  • Lack of life skills or guidance
  • Financial or personal barriers
  • The need for encouragement, direction, and connection

These are not permanent obstacles—they are opportunities to step in and help.


What We Provide

Our program combines practical support and meaningful mentorship, including:

  • Academic support and tutoring
  • Career exploration and job readiness
  • Life skills development (budgeting, communication, transportation, problem-solving)
  • Assistance with real-life needs (IDs, tools, work gear, basic essentials)
  • One-on-one mentorship and encouragement
  • Connections to local businesses, resources, and opportunities

Our Approach

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions.

Each person we work with has a unique story. Our role is to listen, connect, and respond in a way that is personal, practical, and impactful.

As one of our guiding influences often said:
“That’s fixable—we just need to call a few friends.”

That’s exactly what we do.


Scholarships Supporting the Next Generation

As part of our commitment to mentorship, we invest in individuals who are pursuing meaningful career paths that strengthen our community.


Janice Gentile Future Educators Scholarship

Created in memory of our founder, Janice Gentile, this scholarship honors her lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and community-building.

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who:

  • Plans to pursue a degree in teaching or an education-related field
  • Demonstrates a passion for working with youth
  • Shows strong character, leadership, and resilience
  • Has a desire to make a positive impact in their community
  • Preference may be given to those who intend to serve or return to the Lake area

This scholarship reflects Janie’s belief that strong communities begin with strong educators.

Apply for the Janie Gentile Future Educators Scholarship
Donate to Support This Scholarship


Wrendy Marcinik Wellness Scholarship

Created in honor of Dr. Wrendy Marcinik, this scholarship continues her vision of helping others through wellness, healing, and personal growth.

Wrendy believed deeply in supporting others and had expressed a desire to create a scholarship for those entering the wellness field. This scholarship carries that vision forward.

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who:

  • Plans to pursue a career in wellness, holistic health, or personal care
  • Demonstrates a passion for helping others improve their well-being
  • Shows personal growth, resilience, and strong character
  • Has a desire to make a positive impact through their work
  • Has an interest in contributing to their community

This scholarship reflects Wrendy’s belief in healing, connection, and community.

Apply for the Wrendy Marcinik Wellness Scholarship
Donate to Support This Scholarship


How to Get Involved

Become a Mentor

Make a direct impact in someone’s life by offering guidance, encouragement, and support.

Sign Up to Become a Mentor (attach mentor application PDF here)


Refer Someone Who Needs Support

Know someone who could benefit from mentorship? We’re here to help.

Submit a Referral


Support the Program

Your support helps us remove barriers and create opportunities.

Donate to the Mentorship Program
Sponsor a Student or Scholarship


Why It Matters

Many individuals in our community are facing challenges that often go unseen—but they are not unsolvable.

Through mentorship, connection, and community support, we are helping people move forward—building confidence, creating opportunity, and strengthening the future of the Lake.


Final Call to Action

One Connection Can Change a Life

Whether you give your time, your resources, or your support—you are helping build something bigger than all of us.

Get Involved Today