Step Into Youth Mentorship with Level Up Academy 

Phoenix, AZ | August 12, 2026

If you have ever wondered what mentorship could look like in your life, Level Up Academy is a meaningful place to begin. New Pathways for Youth is now enrolling volunteer mentors to be part of this enriching classroom-based experience, where caring adults have the opportunity to show up for Phoenix-area students in a powerful, practical, and community-centered way. 

What Is Level Up Academy? 

Level Up Academy is a 10-week mentoring experience designed to help teens build the mindsets, skills, and sense of belonging they need to thrive in school and beyond. Unlike traditional long-term mentorship, this opportunity takes place in a classroom setting, often during the school day, removing common barriers to participation for students while creating a structured, supportive space for growth. Youth, NPFY instructors, facilitators, and volunteer mentors gather together to learn, reflect, and explore conversations that help students strengthen their confidence, leadership, emotional awareness, and vision for the future. 

A Meaningful Way to Explore Mentorship 

For volunteers, Level Up Academy is a short-term, highly rewarding way to discover the heart of mentoring. If you are looking for a meaningful volunteer experience—or maybe just hoping to dip your toes into what mentorship looks like—this is an experience we highly recommend. In just a few hours per day, a few times each week over the course of the program, mentors get to build connection with students, learn alongside other volunteers, and be supported by experienced facilitators who guide each session. 

Rooted in Trauma-Informed Growth 

At the center of Level Up Academy is NPFY’s trauma-informed personal development curriculum. Through guided discussions, activities, and moments of reflection, students are invited to better understand themselves and the world around them. They explore what it means to recognize and name their emotions, learn from mistakes, set meaningful goals, manage stress, think critically, solve problems creatively, and take ownership of their own learning and growth. Just as importantly, students are surrounded by adults who are there to listen, encourage, and remind them that their dreams are worth pursuing. 

Mentors Grow Alongside Youth 

Mentors do not need to have all the answers. What matters most is a willingness to show up with consistency, curiosity, and care. In Level Up Academy, mentors participate in small group conversations and activities, support student engagement, and help create the kind of classroom environment where young people feel seen, heard, and capable. Along the way, mentors often find that they are growing too—deepening their own understanding of emotional growth, resilience, communication, and what it means to be part of a community committed to youth success. 

Opening a World of Possibilities 

For many students, Level Up Academy can become an important first step into a world of possibilities. It helps young people imagine new pathways for their education, relationships, goals, and future. For volunteers, it offers a chance to make a real difference in a focused and approachable way—while gathering in community with students, fellow mentors, and NPFY facilitators who are all working toward the same purpose: helping youth believe in themselves and take meaningful steps toward success. 

Your Presence Can Make a Difference 

If you are ready to encourage a young person, learn more about trauma-informed mentorship, and be part of a supportive classroom experience, Level Up Academy may be the right place for you. Your presence can help a student get in touch with their emotions, build confidence, and step into what is possible. 

Ready to Get Involved? 

  • Share this opportunity with a friend, colleague, or community group looking for a meaningful way to support Phoenix youth. 

We are grateful to Thunderbird Charities for their generous support in helping expand Level Up Academy and create more opportunities for youth to grow, connect, and thrive.