For the past 3 years, HIU students have been serving at Pacific Drive Elementary (Fullerton, CA) through Hope Mates. Launched in 2013 as an additional support system for at-risk students, the mentoring program now pairs twenty-five first through sixth graders with an HIU student for weekly one-on-one time with their mentor.

“This program has been a wonderful asset development for our students who have come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and it has created an outlet for them at school to connect with a community member in a positive setting,” says Pacific Drive Elementary’s School Counselor Jackie Gallardo-Hoffmaster in regards to Hope Mates. 

“Since the program’s inception, our school has experienced a gradual culture change.  We have observed our major and minor discipline incidents decrease over time and our attendance has improved,” reported Gallardo-Hoffmaster.

Recently, several HIU Hope Mates volunteered at Pacific Drive Elementary for “VIP Day,” an annual PTA event where all Pacific Drive students are encouraged to invite a Very Important Person to school. Hope Mates performed positive songs integrated into encouraging storytelling. Ms. Yolanda Castillo, Principal at Pacific Drive commented, “Our students, parents and staff loved HIU’s performance and we'd like to schedule the next concert as soon as possible!”

The Hope Mates mentoring program is coordinated by Bryan Sands, HIU’s Director of Campus Ministries. For more information or to get involved, contact Bryan.