By Project Uplift*
Project Uplift is such a special opportunity for Auburn students to build real, meaningful relationships while making a lasting impact in a child’s life. At its core, the program is about showing up consistently as a mentor and positive role model, helping children build confidence, strengthen self-esteem, and make positive life choices. Since being established in 1973, Project Uplift has created a space where students can pour into the Auburn/Opelika community while also growing themselves. Inspired by Big Brother Big Sister programs, it is run through the Lee County Youth Development Center with support from the United Way of Lee County and Auburn University’s Department of Human Development & Family Sciences. What makes it so meaningful is that Auburn students are not just volunteering, they are investing in people and building relationships that truly matter. Through this, mentors develop leadership skills, empathy, and a better understanding of how to serve others well.
Mentors “uplifting” their mentees!
The impact of these relationships often goes far beyond what anyone expects. One powerful example comes from a mentor who volunteered with Project Uplift in 1986 and was matched with Nikki, a 13-year-old soon-to-be mom. She walked alongside Nikki through one of the most important seasons of her life, attending childbirth classes, being the only person in the delivery room, and supporting her all the way until she graduated from Auburn University. Although they eventually lost touch, Nikki found her mentor nearly 40 years later through Facebook, and met up once again in Auburn. Her message said it best: “Project Uplift changed both of our lives back then—and still does today.” Stories like this show that these relationships are not temporary, they are lasting and life-changing for both people involved. It highlights how choosing to invest in someone can create impact that carries on for decades. That is what makes Project Uplift so powerful.
That same kind of impact shows up in the everyday relationships current mentors are building. One pair of mentors shared, “We started with Project Uplift back as sophomores a few years ago, and now as seniors we’ve had the opportunity to be ‘big brothers’ to King and KJ.” They added, “Being able to get to know King and KJ these past few years has been awesome. We love hanging out with them, cracking jokes, playing sports, helping them with homework, and teaching them life lessons.” Their experience shows how these relationships grow over time, turning weekly hangouts into something consistent and meaningful. They also shared how rewarding it has been to watch the boys grow and how thankful they are for the chance to pour into their lives. Another mentor shared, “Being mentors with Project Uplift has been such a special experience for us. Our relationship with Journey is so sweet, she always calls us her big sisters, and honestly that’s exactly how it feels.” These kinds of relationships go far beyond structured mentorship and turn into genuine friendships built on trust and care. Auburn students are not just showing up, they are becoming steady, supportive people in these kids’ lives. In return, they gain a sense of purpose and connection that is hard to find anywhere else.
Throughout the year, these relationships grow even stronger through shared experiences and opportunities to get involved in the Auburn community. Project Uplift partners with groups across campus, including the Auburn Equestrian Team, Auburn Cheerleaders, IFC, Auburn Pharmacy, and other student organizations, giving mentors and mentees the chance to make fun memories while trying new things together. For many mentees, these events are their first time being exposed to different parts of campus life, which helps build confidence and makes them feel more connected to the Auburn community. At the same time, mentors step into leadership roles by guiding and encouraging their mentees through these new experiences. The biggest event this year was the first ever Project Uplift Boutique, created with the Pediatric and NICU Club and Alpha Chi Omega, where over 1,000 clothing donations were collected for a boutique style shopping experience. This event was about more than just clothing. It gave mentees a chance to feel confident and cared for while also learning practical skills like budgeting and decision making in a hands-on way. Moments like these strengthen relationships in a real way and show how impactful it can be when Auburn students come together to pour into their community.
Success at the Project Uplift Boutique!
At the end of the day, Project Uplift is about relationships. It is about Auburn students choosing to show up, invest in others, and make a difference in ways that last far beyond their time in college. Whether it is through weekly mentorship, shared experiences, or special events like the boutique, the impact is clear in both the mentors and the mentees. Students walk away not only knowing they made a difference, but also having grown into more compassionate, intentional leaders. At the same time, the children in the program gain consistent support, encouragement, and someone who genuinely believes in them. That mutual impact is what makes Project Uplift so meaningful and so lasting. It is more than just a program, it is a community built on care, connection, and showing up for one another.
Project Uplift is an organization of Auburn University.
