The Mentors Project of Bibb County is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Extension 4‑H Positive Youth Development Program, uniting two mission‑driven organizations to empower Bibb County’s next generation of leaders.

Together, they’re building a Land‑Grant powered pipeline of mentorship, education, and opportunity that connects students with caring adult mentors and hands‑on 4‑H learning experiences. This collaboration is designed to help youth thrive academically, socially, and professionally — equipping them with vital skills in STEM, leadership, healthy living, and workforce readiness.

“Every child deserves the chance to discover their passion and see a path toward their future,” said Mr. Woodie Hughes Jr., Assistant Extension Administrator 4‑H Program Leader at FVSU. “This partnership creates a bridge where mentorship meets opportunity — a foundation for lifelong success.”

As part of this groundbreaking initiative, 5 Bibb County students have been selected to attend the 4‑H Ignite Conference in Washington, D.C. this March. The national event brings together hundreds of young leaders from across the country to explore innovation, civic engagement, and college‑and‑career pathways.

“This partnership reflects everything the Mentors Project stands for.. hope, exposure, and empowerment,” said Marshall Talley, Program Director for the Mentors Project of Bibb County. “We’re not just mentoring students; we’re opening doors to experiences that will shape their futures.”

By coupling the relational strength of mentorship with the experiential learning power of 4‑H programming, the two organizations aim to close opportunity gaps and build stronger futures for youth across Macon‑Bibb County.