Jennifer and Charles McClendon: Fortifying the Education Foundation of Sarasota County by mentoring each other
By Sandy Chase
Sandy Chase is a writer, poet, mentor, and avid nonprofit volunteer. In the contributed article below, she writes about the growth of the Mentoring Program at the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.
Jennifer and Charles McClendon help promote the Education Foundation of Sarasota County’s mission by collaborating with each other about their respective mentees: McKenzie, a Riverview 12th-grade student, and Nathan, a 10th-grade student at Pine View. Mentoring also extends to the husband-and-wife team because they learn from each other.
Years of mentoring and teaching experience are paramount
In addition to Jennifer’s bachelor’s degree in science and Charles’ MBA, with a focus on executive leadership, this husband-and-wife team brings years of mentoring experience reinforced by their individual careers and a shared passion for helping students in the community.
Charles says, “I have the opportunity to do what I love: help the next generation understand their strengths, reach their potential, and contribute to our community.”
Jennifer agrees, saying, “The Education Foundation invests in young people holistically. Its mission aligns with my desire to help students feel supported and motivated by achieving their goals.”
Diverse careers contribute to the team’s strengths
Diversity strengthens communication and troubleshooting skills that are pertinent to the mentoring program. The McClendons have also mentored for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, DREAMBIG at the University of Nebraska, and various reading programs in Detroit and Sarasota, including IMG Academy, a Bradenton preparatory boarding school and sports training facility that attracts international students.
Charles helps leaders build workplace cultures where employees feel respected and valued as founder and president of No Ceilings.
A Preferred SHORE Real Estate agent and registered dental hygienist, Jennifer advocates, builds trust and educates.
Charles summarizes what is most critical for their mentees and the Education Foundation:
“When our mentees face challenges, Jennifer and I problem-solve, discussing strategies to get feedback and improve our recommendations. Because we come from two different backgrounds, we are more innovative together than individually.
How we mentor each other is similar to what we do with our mentees: We ask thoughtful questions and listen. We invest in each other, supporting each other’s solutions even when we might disagree. Accountability is key, reminding our partner how we deserve to be treated fairly and respectfully.”
Skills and different perspectives strengthen Charles and Jennifer’s mentoring opportunities and support students who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of next steps. Jennifer also benefits from Charles’ expertise in emotional intelligence and reading body language.
Both agree it is difficult to watch students struggle when their potential is greater than what they see in themselves. Jennifer has found the biggest challenge is supporting students who face obstacles outside the classroom, including lack of motivation, confidence, resources or stability. Charles, on the other hand, points out Nathan’s challenge with time management, noting the importance of pausing to learn from successes as well as mistakes.
However, the team agrees the rewards make it worthwhile. Jennifer encapsulates their pride in being part of the Education Foundation: “Seeing students begin to believe in themselves, stay committed to graduating or own their future is fulfilling.”
Charles and Jennifer’s mentees are grateful
Nathan appreciates Charles’ enthusiasm and support:
“In a short amount of time, we have covered many interesting topics. We talk about time management, goal setting and college. Specifically, Mr. McClendon helps me keep track of my habits and revise them if necessary. He is also teaching me how to update my resume. Mr. McClendon is a great guy. I look forward to our meetings.” 
McKenzie applauds Jennifer:
“Finding this program has helped me tremendously. Being set up with my mentor has been the best experience in my high school career. She has helped me become more focused so I can set goals and accomplish them. Outside education, she has helped me deal with emotional challenges at home. She does not just care about school or grades; she also cares about what is going on outside. It is such a blessing finding you all. Thank you, Jennifer and the Education Foundation.” 
Charles and Jennifer learn from their mentees
“Nathan has an entrepreneurial spirit, reminding me not to become complacent,” Charles says.
Jennifer adds:
“I am constantly learning resilience, honesty and perspective. McKenzie reminds me that every student’s journey is different; success does not follow a straight line.
Witnessing her determination has deepened my empathy and patience. I have learned to be a better listener before offering guidance and to understand where students are by walking with them at their pace.”
Advice to potential volunteers reflects the couple’s skills
“It is critical to get involved in your community,” Charles says. “Identifying your strengths and researching organizations will give you the opportunity to do what you do best. I have always found that if we appreciate and invest in others, they will reciprocate.”
“Volunteering enables you to grow alongside the people you serve,” Jennifer says. “Although your impact may not always be immediate, it is lasting. When you invest in your community, especially its youth, you are helping shape futures in ways that extend beyond what you can see.”
The Education Foundation is grateful for Jennifer and Charles
Jennifer and Charles continue to make a difference in the lives of others and community organizations, especially by boosting the foundation’s mission. In the four years since the McClendons relocated to the community, they have fortified the lives of local youth — the next generation poised to succeed and serve as role models.
Read more about Charles McClendon’s experience on LinkedIn.
Read more about Jennifer McClendon’s experience on LinkedIn.