In this episode of Hello Austin County, weโre joined by Brenda Stewart, Executive Director of Raising Academic Performance (RAP) โ a local nonprofit thatโs making a life-changing difference for students across Austin County.
Brenda walks us through how RAP pairs adult mentors with students in local school districts, offering weekly one-on-one sessions that build trust, motivation, and academic confidence. Whether youโre familiar with mentoring or hearing about it for the first time, Brendaโs passion for helping kids succeed is infectious.
We explore what a typical RAP mentoring session looks like, how mentors are trained and supported, and how RAP collaborates with schools like Sealy ISD, Bellville ISD, and Brazos ISD. From personal stories to measurable outcomes, youโll hear how something as simple as โshowing up once a weekโ can have a powerful ripple effect in a studentโs life.
If youโre looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community, this episode might just inspire you to become a mentor.
Episode Highlights:
โฐ 00:00 โ Meet Brenda Stewart and the mission of RAP
โฐ 02:15 โ What does a RAP mentor actually do?
โฐ 04:06 โ How RAP started and Brendaโs path to leadership
โฐ 06:49 โ The mentor-student relationship and its impact
โฐ 09:03 โ What kind of students participate in RAP?
โฐ 10:42 โ Stories of real success and transformation
โฐ 13:15 โ How mentoring helps build confidence and trust
โฐ 15:31 โ The logistics: training, background checks, and scheduling
โฐ 17:55 โ What schools RAP serves and how referrals work
โฐ 20:21 โ Why RAP worksโand how to get involved
โฐ 22:03 โ Final thoughts and how to sign up as a mentor
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Until next time โ keep smiling, Austin County!
