Mentor
Guide the next generation
Share your experience, networks, and encouragement with first-generation students navigating college and career.
Apply as mentorPartner with us
Get Involved
Whether you mentor, give, volunteer, or partner - your support helps first-generation students of color challenge barriers, grow with purpose, and lead with impact.
Start here
Our most direct ways to join The SUMMIT community.
Mentee
Join the mentoring community
Access SPIE programming - Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, and Emotional growth - with peers and mentors who have your back.
Apply as menteeFund
Invest in student success
One-time or recurring gifts sustain mentoring, workshops, conferences, and leadership development across our campuses.
For donors Give nowMore ways to help
Volunteer
Contribute your time on campus - events, workshops, and project support that make a direct impact.
Volunteer with usCorporate partner
Align your organization with our mission through sponsorships, employee engagement, and workforce development.
Explore partnershipsCareers
Explore roles and internships as we prepare young leaders through mentoring and professional development.
View opportunitiesGet social
Amplify our message - share stories, host awareness events, and help more students find The SUMMIT.
Spread the wordWrite. Visit. Follow.
FAQs
Common questions about partnering with The SUMMIT Foundation.
What is The SUMMIT Foundation?
The SUMMIT Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering first-generation students and Youth of Color. Legal identity & governance.
What is the mission of The SUMMIT Foundation?
Our mission is to challenge first-generation students of color to break barriers, nurture their growth through mentorship, integrity, and innovation, and shape a brighter future for their careers and communities.
Why partner with The SUMMIT Foundation?
The SUMMIT Foundation transforms lives through mentorship, education, and leadership development. See how we define impact metrics.
1. Develop a ready and qualified workforce
- 90+ SUMMIT-affiliated STEM-H graduates (2017–2025 cohorts) — see definitions.
- By supporting us, you sustain a pipeline of skilled, diverse talent rooted at ODU.
2. Foster noble and responsible citizenship
- ~90% multi-year retention among members active two or more years — methodology.
3. Advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) goals
- Partnerships help underrepresented students thrive and diversify the workforce.
4. Strengthen communities and drive economic growth
- ~70% of graduates report mentoring or service within 24 months — methodology.
Who can join The SUMMIT Foundation programs?
First-generation students and Youth of Color are welcome. We also partner with schools, community organizations, and local businesses.
What programs or services does The SUMMIT Foundation offer?
Mentoring, leadership training, career development workshops, academic support, networking opportunities, and access to empowering resources.
How successful is The SUMMIT Foundation?
See Impact & outcomes for cohort definitions (2017–2025). Request raw data for due diligence at info@thesummitfoundations.org.
Where does The SUMMIT Foundation operate?
Primary hub: Old Dominion University (official SUMMIT Peer Mentoring program). We welcome mentees and mentors from across Hampton Roads; see campus footprint.
Who can I contact for more information?
Email info@thesummitfoundations.org or call 757-606-0069.