Guiding Light Mentoring

Guiding Light Mentoring is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the Greater Cincinnati area that supports youth ages 8–18 through mentorship, leadership development, and positive decision-making skills. Founded in 2014 by CEO Latisha Owens, the organization focuses on serving urban communities where youth may face economic hardship, unstable family environments, and limited access to resources, with all services provided at no cost to families.

Mission 

The organization's mission is to empower young people to become future leaders by equipping them with skills and resources to make a positive and lasting impact in their lives. 

Guiding Light Mentoring's programs emphasize:

• Providing positive role models.
• Teaching relationship skills.
• Helping develop moral character. 

 

Impact

Since its founding in 2014, Guiding Light Mentoring has served over 3,100 youth through its programs and community events, currently serving approximately 450 youth annually. 

This year, we’re celebrating 11 years of Guiding Light Mentoring. Eleven years of believing in our youth, walking beside them through challenges, and watching them grow into confident, capable, compassionate young leaders. 

This year alone, we’ve served more than 600 children — providing not just programs, but pathways to hope, confidence, and success. And our mentors and volunteers have dedicated over 1,200 hours of their time — showing up, week after week, to pour into the next generation. 

That’s 1,200 hours of listening ears.  1,200 hours of encouragement.  1,200 hours of planting seeds that will grow for years to come. 

Because that’s what this work is really about — people showing up for people.  And that’s what your support can help do. Giving Tuesday is not just about financial support, but gratitude. It’s about the lives touched, the hours given, and the future we’re building — together. 

So, we're asking you — from one heart to another — to help us keep that light shining. 

💛 For $1,000, you can sponsor one student in our mentoring program for an entire year — that’s twelve months of support, growth, and transformation. 

💛 For $500, you’ll support the Tasha Jones Porter Scholarship Fund, helping students continue their education and chase their dreams. 

💛 For $300, you’ll help send a student to experiences like our Youth Retreat or I AM ME Summit — places where they learn, laugh, and take way too many selfies. 

💛 For $150, you’ll help families access memberships at local community centers and YMCAs — safe spaces where kids can learn, play, and thrive.  

💛 For $75, you’ll help celebrate student accomplishments through rewards and recognition — because we believe in giving flowers while they can still smell them. 

💛 And for $50, you’ll help keep healthy snacks stocked for our after-school program. 

But truly — no gift is too small, and no act of generosity goes unnoticed. Maybe your number isn’t one that we just said — that’s okay.  Give what’s on your heart. 💛 

Because every single dollar and every single “yes” helps a young person see that they are seen, valued, and supported. 

Whether it’s $5 or $5,000 — it all matters. 

 And together, it all adds up to brighter futures, stronger families, and a community.

Get Involved

For those interested in supporting the mission or seeking services, more information is available on the official Guiding Light Mentoring website.