Mentors are important. Very few people make it in this world without the guidance and support that comes from some type of mentorship. The Bristol Board of Education Caring About People mentoring program was founded by Fred Soliani and the Bristol Chamber of Commerce in 1989.

Through the support of the community, the Board of Education, and Business Education Foundation the program has developed into one of the top programs in the state.  Mentoring allows part of us to give the best parts of ourselves to those around us, by serving as a role model, guide, or friend. Our individual success belongs to the whole community who supported us as we pursued our goals.

Each year there are between 150 and 200 mentors who volunteer one hour every week, during the school year, to inspire Bristol students.  Mentors come from all walks of life, experiences and requires no special skills; there is no “right type of mentor”.  We cannot assume young people have an adult who can provide good advice, help with schoolwork or just give them a pat on the back. It is the Caring About People mentors who assist in supporting, inspiring, and uncovering the passion each student has.