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OMEGA LAMPLIGHTERS MENTORING PROGRAM
At the Bridge Builder Collection, we are thrilled to introduce the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program, a transformative initiative designed to empower young men in the Hamilton County area. We are proud to announce our partnership with the Kappa Iota Chapter, an unincorporated entity of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., to enhance the impact of this program. The program is open to young men in Hamilton County from grades 6 through 12.
Program Overview
Mentoring by the Numbers:
Omega Lamplighters Program
In the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program, we are committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of young men in our community. Our mission is to provide these young men with opportunities and mentorship to overcome socioeconomic barriers and thrive. Many of our mentees come from households that rely on essential support programs such as free or reduced lunch, income assistance, and housing assistance. Through mentoring, we aim to build brighter futures for the next generation, supporting them academically, socially, and personally.
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Pages With Purpose:
Bro. Gary James
$250 Micro Scholarship
Challenge
This new literacy initiative, launching in 2025, will honor Bro. Gary James, a retired educator and dedicated philanthropist who has served the Chattanooga community for over 40 years. Bro. James has been actively involved in numerous community service initiatives and has proudly been a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. throughout that time. The program is exclusively available to mentees in our Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program, continuing our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders through the power of reading and education.
How It Works:
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Mentees will read 4 books from the approved reading list.
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After finishing each book, take a test (max 15 questions) during our in-person sessions.
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Books are provided at no cost and are yours to keep.
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Request 1 book at a time and move to the next after passing the test.
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The winner will be determined by the fastest completion time and highest average test score.
2025 Approved Reading List
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"Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck
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"The Giver" by Lois Lowry
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"Monster" by Walter Dean Myers
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"Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Prize
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The winner will receive a $250 Micro Scholarship.
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Scholarship awarded after high school graduation and successful entry into a post-secondary school (Trade, Community College, University, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the tests be administered?
Tests will be administered during our in-person sessions.
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Will the books cost anything?
No, the books will be provided at no cost to each mentee.
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Can I keep the books after reading them?
Yes, once you receive a book, it’s yours to keep!
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Is there a limit to how many times I can win?
No! This will be an annual competition, funds permitting. A 6th grader entering our program who wins every year could earn up to $1,750 for college just by reading!
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When will I receive the $250 Micro Scholarship?
The scholarship will be awarded after high school graduation and upon successful entry into a post-secondary school (Trade School, Community College, University, etc.).
Kendale Thomas
Service Excellence
Micro-Scholarship
The Kendale Thomas: Service Excellence Micro-Scholarship is named in honor of Kendale Thomas, a proud Chattanooga native and a founding member of The Bridge Builder Collective. Kendale’s relentless dedication and hard work have been instrumental in shaping the success of our organization. This scholarship reflects his commitment to service, inspiring the next generation of leaders to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
How It Works:
The Kendale Thomas: Service Excellence Micro-Scholarship is an exciting new opportunity launching in 2025, exclusively for mentees of the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program. This scholarship rewards dedication to community service by awarding the mentee with the most verifiable service hours completed within the program year.
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Eligibility: Must be an active participant in the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program.
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Service Period: All volunteer hours must be completed between January 1, 2025, and November 30, 2025.
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Verification: Service hours must be documented and verified by November 30, 2025.
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Announcement: The winner will be announced in December 2025.
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Reoccurring Opportunity: Participants are eligible to compete for the scholarship each year they remain enrolled in the program, with the ability to stack scholarships for use toward future educational expenses.
Prize
The mentee with the most documented service hours at the end of the program year will receive a $250 Micro-Scholarship.
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Payment: The scholarship will be payable after the student graduates high school and enrolls in a post-secondary institution, such as a college, university, or trade school.
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Stackable Benefit: If a mentee wins multiple years, each award will accumulate to support their education.
Prize
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The winner will receive a $250 Micro Scholarship.
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Scholarship awarded after high school graduation and successful entry into a post-secondary school (Trade, Community College, University, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to compete for the Kendale Thomas Micro-Scholarship?
This scholarship is exclusively available to active participants of the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program.
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Can a mentee win the scholarship more than once?
Yes! The scholarship is stackable, meaning mentees can earn it in multiple years as long as they remain active in the program.
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When is the cutoff date for submitting service hours?
All service hours must be completed and verified by November 30, 2025.
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When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be announced in December 2025.
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What types of institutions qualify for scholarship payment?
The scholarship is payable after high school graduation and enrollment in any valid post-secondary institution, including colleges, universities, and trade schools.
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How will service hours be verified?
Participants must submit hours through the approved tracking system or to their mentor for verification before the November 30, 2025 deadline.
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If I win multiple scholarships, how will the awards be applied?
Each micro-scholarship award will accumulate and be available for payout when the mentee graduates and enrolls in a post-secondary program.
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2025 Omega Lamplighter Activities & Events
The Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program offers a dynamic and enriching experience for mentees, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and fun. Here’s a preview of the exciting activities and events planned for 2025:
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Bowling, Gaming, & Laser Tag – SpareTime Entertainment
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Life in Motion: Career & Budget Simulation
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Simulated Space Mission – UTC Challenger Center
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Visit to the National Museum of African American Music
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"Baseball with da Bruhz"
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Bridge Builder Cookout
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UTC Homecoming Game
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National Coat Drive
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& More!
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These activities are designed to inspire, educate, and engage mentees, fostering both personal growth and community involvement throughout the year.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible Applicants
All young men in grades 6-12 living in the Hamilton County area are eligible to apply.
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Selection Criteria
We consider the following criteria during the selection process:
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Personal Characteristics: Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a sense of responsibility for personal growth.
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Home Life: Consideration of challenges that might affect participation, ensuring necessary support.
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Academic Performance: Assessment of academic motivation and commitment, with struggling students not automatically disqualified.
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Interest & Hobbies: Consideration of mentee's interests to ensure proper mentorship alignment.
2025 Applications Are Now Closed
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The application period for the Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program is now closed. We’re thrilled to welcome the 2025 Cohort and congratulate the young men who will be joining us this year!
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If you missed the chance to apply, stay connected with us for future opportunities. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and to be notified when the next application period opens.
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The Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program offers young men in grades 6 through 12 a transformative, year-round experience focused on leadership, academic achievement, and personal growth. We look forward to another impactful year with our new cohort.
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For more information about the program, please visit our website or contact us directly. Thank you for your continued interest and support in empowering the next generation of leaders!