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The Teach One to Lead One community mentoring program, brought to Bogalusa High School by District Attorney Warren Montgomery, has been awarded a $5,000 grant from International Paper’s Bogalusa Mill and the International Paper Foundation.

Funds will support efforts to mentor at-risk junior high and high school students at Bogalusa High School. The community-based mentoring program teaches Universal Principles that help to develop character and leadership skills and guide students in pursuing lives of purpose and potential.

“We wouldn’t be able to offer this wonderful program to our children without this significant contribution from International Paper,” Montgomery said. “This is an excellent example of the public sector and industry working together for the good of our community.”

Teach One To Lead One (T1L1) is a nationwide program with chapters throughout the country, including North Louisiana. Montgomery heard about the program, worked with school administrators to implement it at Bogalusa High, and recruited mentors from the community.

Walter Allen, T1L1’s Louisiana chapter director, also praised International Paper’s commitment to the Bogalusa community.

“With their support, our hope of developing community leaders becomes a reality,” Allen said.

The International Paper Foundation is one of the ways International Paper strives to reach its vision to be among the most successful, sustainable and responsible companies in the world. Started in 1952, the foundation annually provides millions in grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to address critical needs in the communities where its employees live and work. Funding priority is given to programs related to its signature causes: education, hunger, health and wellness, disaster relief, and initiatives that improve the planet. For more information, visit ipgiving.com.

Teach One to Lead One functions within elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the nation. The program provides schools with qualified mentors and a proven curriculum that is presented during regular school hours approved by the school’s administration.

The Teach One to Lead One mentoring program requires no additional training or certification from school staff. Emphasizing excellence and integrity, the Teach One to Lead One principles taught become incorporated into the daily lives of students and play a huge role in increased performances. Teachers continue to support the implementation of the program as part of their class schedule.