Jessica Jones - Foundation for Choice.org

Can just one hour a week change the trajectory of a student's life? On this episode of Caddo Convos, guest Jessica Jones from Foundation For Choice breaks down how 1-on-1 mentorship, career exploration, and corporate partnerships are transforming high school juniors and seniors into confident, college-and-career-ready leaders.

Whether you're a local business owner looking to give back or an individual wanting to make a tangible impact, this conversation is a powerful reminder of how community mentorship creates real change.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-jones-mba-96496b255/

https://foundationforchoice.org/

https://www.instagram.com/foundation_for_c.h.o.i.c.e/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/FoundationForCHOICE/

Key Takeaways Targeted Student Support: Foundation For Choice operates primarily in Dallas ISD (and expanding to Richardson ISD), pairing underserved high school juniors and seniors with 1-on-1 mentors for 27 weeks.

Low-Barrier Commitment for Mentors: Mentors meet with students during the school day for about an hour a week (with a baseline expectation of at least once a month), using a guided, step-by-step curriculum provided by the organization.

Hands-on Career Exploration: Beyond standard mentoring, the program organizes business field trips (e.g., Capital One, Intuit) and connects students with "Business Champions" for industry research and informational calls.

Real Success Stories: Program participant Justin went from doubting college was for him to securing a summer internship with American Airlines through the mentorship network.

First-Gen College Guidance: The curriculum helps students—many of whom are first-generation college-bound—navigate college selection, scholarship searches, and financial aid without fear or confusion.