JACOB’S LADDER
Jacob’s Ladder Youth Mentor Program
The Jacob’s Ladder Youth Mentor Program is the heart of Graces of Gurley and exists to help students grow spiritually, emotionally, socially, and academically through consistent, healthy relationships in a Christ-centered community.
Serving students from Kindergarten through high school, Jacob’s Ladder provides age-appropriate mentorship, life skills education, tutoring support, leadership development, and meaningful community connection. Our goal is not simply to keep kids busy, but to walk alongside them as they discover their value, purpose, and potential.
Students are encouraged through weekly gatherings, mentor relationships, Bible study, character-building lessons, service opportunities, fun activities, and hands-on life experiences. From learning scripture and healthy communication skills to exploring future careers and serving others in the community, each part of the program is designed to help students flourish.
Many of our students are referred to us by teachers and school staff who recognize both their needs and their incredible potential to succeed despite difficult circumstances. Many come from low-income or single-parent households, while others are being raised by grandparents or great-grandparents. For many students, Jacob’s Ladder is also their first experience with church and hearing about the love of Jesus.
Our goal is to build strong, lasting relationships that point students to Christ while providing encouragement, support, and life-changing opportunities. We want every child to know they are valued, capable, and loved. Through mentorship, life skills, spiritual guidance, and new experiences, we help students navigate school, prepare for their future, and move toward lives marked by hope and flourishing.
Jacob’s Ladder started in August 2018
The building blocks:
Pray faithfully for and with the students and their families
Build meaningful relationships through listening, encouragement, games, and shared experiences
Provide support, encouragement, and rewards for hard work and progress
Meet weekly for Bible study
Help meet physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs as we are able
Walk alongside families and assist with critical needs when challenges arise ✨
Jacob’s Ladder Minis
Our elementary students build strong foundations through scripture memory, Bible lessons, games, tutoring support, and activities that teach kindness, respect, teamwork, and confidence in a fun and encouraging environment. They learn soft skills such as patience, sharing, and caring through exercises and enjoy field trips and opportunities to experience some of life’s simple joys, like sharing an ice cream together, sometimes for the very first time. This past year they began learning leadership skills as each week a student is selected as the “Coat of Arms” to lead the group in every aspect of their afternoon.
Jacob’s Ladder Juniors
Middle school students begin developing practical life skills while engaging in deeper conversations about emotions, friendships, decision-making, communication, and personal responsibility, all while continuing to grow in their faith and confidence. Students have access to counseling through our contracted professional therapists and can participate in group sessions that address topics such as anxiety, depression, motivation, healthy coping skills, and discipline. Through volunteerism, participation, and completing coursework and life skills activities, students also have opportunities to earn special experiences and rewards, including trips, outings, and even a new pair of shoes. During the summer, students have the opportunity to attend camp away from home, where friendships deepen, confidence grows, and lasting memories are made together.
Jacob’s Ladder Seniors
High school students focus on leadership, goal setting, career exploration, mentorship, and preparation for adulthood. Students meet monthly as a group, with boys and girls often meeting separately for focused life skills discussions and activities. We also provide one-on-one mentorship for students who desire additional encouragement, accountability, and support.
Throughout the year, students visit colleges and trade schools, hear from professionals in fields such as the military, healthcare, business, and skilled trades, and explore opportunities for their future. As students prepare for graduation, our Care Manager works individually with them to help navigate next steps in life, whether that includes employment, trade school, college, or other educational opportunities.
Students also have opportunities to participate in community service opportunities, sports and extracurricular scholarship programs, and attend summer camp, where many experience new adventures, step outside their comfort zones, and build lasting friendships and confidence along the way.
One of the many benefits of participating in Jacob's Ladder is the opportunity to earn scholarships for sports, band, cheer, and other approved extracurricular activities.
At Graces of Gurley, we believe in the principles of True Charity. Rather than simply giving assistance, we seek to create opportunities that build dignity, responsibility, and ownership. Our goal is to help students invest in their own success while receiving the support they need to thrive.
To qualify for scholarship assistance, students must first demonstrate financial need through a simple application and conversation with our Care Manager. Students must also be actively participating in Jacob's Ladder and remain in good standing through regular attendance and academic eligibility.
Students who meet these requirements may receive up to $250 toward approved extracurricular expenses.
In addition, students can earn up to another $250 by completing community service hours. Service may be performed through Graces of Gurley, a church, school, or another approved nonprofit organization. Students earn scholarship funds at a rate of $10 per hour, up to 25 hours of service.
This approach reflects our belief that young people are capable of meaningful contribution. By serving others, students develop character, responsibility, work ethic, and a deeper appreciation for the opportunities they receive. They learn that success is not merely given, but earned through commitment and effort.
All scholarship funds are paid directly to the receiving organization, team, or activity and are never distributed directly to students or families.
Through this Earn-It model, we hope to remove financial barriers while helping students discover the dignity, confidence, and sense of accomplishment that come from investing in their own future.
