AventWest Children's Mentoring (AWCM) is an afterschool tutoring program for academically at risk children in grades 1-11 residing in the AventWest community near N.C. State University. The program meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 4:45-6:45. Volunteer tutors are needed from 5:15-6:15 for middle/high school students and 5:30-6:30 for elementary students.

Students are referred to the program by teachers, counselors, social workers and community members. They receive assistance with homework and basic skills, a nutritious meal or healthy snack, a caring adult to give them attention and a safe place to play after school. The program incorporates instruction on nutrition, self-esteem, peer pressure and making healthy choices to help them develop confidence, competence and caring attitudes.

AWCM meets the children's immediate need for nutritious food by providing an evening meal or healthy snack and teaches them about nutrition and related issues to improve their health and well being.

By helping the students achieve academically, their chances of graduating from high school and obtaining additional education are greatly improved.

Additional activities include field trips and collaboration with community based programs to provide other educational opportunities including leadership development, nutrition education and healthy eating on a limited budget.