Making a Difference with the Promise Partnership

Abigail Legacy

READING TIME: 4 MINUTES

UNB Saint John’s Promise Partnership has been changing the lives of both Saint John youth and UNB scholars since it was first established back in 2010. Today, they remain motivated with their goal to give back to the community while providing students of the UNB Saint John campus opportunities to get volunteer experience, build professional skills, practice creativity and leadership, and above all else, make a difference. 

(Promise Partnership/Facebook)

The Promise Partnership's Purpose and Mission

The Promise Partnership’s goal has always been about creating a bridge between the university and the community. Additionally, the minds behind the Partnership are driven to address the significant strains in obtaining education that youth facing low socio-economic status are subjected to.  

Via their mentorship programs, the Promise Partnership connects UNB scholars with youth in need of extra opportunities and assistance. Mentors are equipped to help young minds achieve and maintain literacy levels, overcome challenges, prepare for and excel throughout high school, and learn how to prepare themselves for higher education. 

The Baron had a chance to meet with the Promise Partnership’s student Ambassador, Patrick Richard, who spoke a bit about how his involvement has impacted his university life. 

“As a student, it’s been a cool experience getting to meet professors and have a chance to get involved in the university community,” he commented, “Especially because I got involved so early. I was already doing great things in my second year, and working with the Promise Partnership has opened a lot of doors job-wise.”  

UNIV 1005

Like many other students that have worked with the Promise Partnership, Richard began forging his connection when he the UNIV 1005 course, “Service Learning Mentoring.” The course combines in-class lectures and service-learning components that place scholars in a mentoring position with local students. The course description details what you can expect to learn by participating, but beyond just this, it emphasizes how you will come to gain a better understanding of your place in the community through your efforts with mentorship.  

Additionally, enrolling in UNIV 1005 or volunteering alongside the Promise Partnership is an excellent way to test out the waters of your education and long-term goals, as expressed by both Richard and a second past mentor. 

“I used to be in the engineering program, but I switched out wanting to go into education. I wasn’t one hundred percent sure on my decision however, so I spoke with an advisor who recommended UNIV 1005.” Richard recounted his experience, “It was super fun, easy, rewarding, excellent on a resume, and it gives you the opportunity to help out the community.”  

“It’s such an important course, and I feel like everyone should do it.” Said second year arts student Joslynn MacDonald, “It really helps you figure out career paths and assess what works for you.”  

MacDonald goes on to describe how through UNIV 1005, her experience with the Promise Partnership was like a brief introduction to teaching, including the creation of miniature lesson plans before the arrival of the students and some of the digital literacy aspects that played a part in teaching. She also commented on how sometimes the students she mentored would surprise her, showing her how to do things instead of vice versa.  

“They have a lot of potential,” Joslynn said fondly, “and programs like this give them the opportunity to know someone in University, which encourages them to keep going with their education.”  

(Promise Partnership/Facebook)

Why It Matters

The Promise Partnership is much more than just an educational initiative that the university offers; it is a long-term investment in the future of Saint John’s youth. By providing academic support, mentoring, and chances to engage in hands-on learning, the program empowers students to overcome barriers to success and provides opportunities for them to strive even with the limitations that may arise because of socio-economic status. The Partnership also establishes a sense of community by creating important relationships between university students and local youth, providing role-models for students in need, and giving its mentors valuable real-world experience and skill development. 

Richard certainly agrees with this sentiment, as he recounted one of his most memorable experiences: 

“I was with a student for a whole semester,” He described, “and at the end of our experience together, him and his mom made muffins that he brought in for me. I’ll always remember that.”  

How to Get Involved 

The Promise Partnership relies on the dedication of volunteers, and UNB Saint John students are greatly encouraged to participate. If you are a student at UNB Saint John and would like to get involved, you can sign up through the official volunteer registration link 

Mentors for the Winter 2025 semester are needed! Whether you're looking to gain experience, contribute to your community, or make a lasting impact on the lives of young people, the Promise Partnership offers you opportunities to get involved. 

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