About Us
Who We Are & Why We Do This
Rooted in Monroe. Driven by belief in second chances.
Our Story
Choices Mentoring began with a simple truth: one person showing up consistently can change a life.
Founded in Monroe, Louisiana by Terrance Carroll, our organization was built on the belief that young people and returning citizens don’t need to be fixed—they need to be seen, supported, and given real opportunities to succeed.
For over 15 years, we’ve been doing just that. Through hands-on programs in urban agriculture, restorative justice, violence prevention, and youth entrepreneurship, we meet people where they are and walk alongside them as they build new pathways forward.
We’re not a traditional nonprofit. We’re neighbors, mentors, and advocates who believe that transformation happens in community—through hard work, accountability, and the kind of support that doesn’t give up.
Our Mission
To provide pathways to purpose for youth and returning citizens through mentorship, skill-building, and community engagement—creating safer neighborhoods and stronger futures across Monroe.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every young person and justice-involved individual has the support, tools, and belief they need to build a meaningful future.
Our Core Values
Empowerment
We believe in people’s ability to change their own lives when given the right tools and support.
Accountability
Growth requires honesty, structure, and follow-through—from participants and from us.
Community
Real change happens when neighbors invest in neighbors.
Restoration
Everyone deserves a second chance and the dignity of meaningful work.
Action
We don’t just talk about change—we show up and do the work.
Meet Our Founder
Terrance Carroll
Founder & Executive Director
Terrance Carroll didn’t set out to start a nonprofit—he set out to show up.
Growing up in Monroe, Louisiana, Terrance saw firsthand how cycles of poverty, incarceration, and violence could trap entire families and neighborhoods. But he also saw something else: the power of one person believing in you when no one else does.
That belief became the foundation of Choices Mentoring.
For over 15 years, Terrance has worked directly with youth and returning citizens, building programs that don’t just offer services—they offer relationship, accountability, and real pathways to change. From launching the city’s first urban agriculture initiative to creating reentry programs that provide housing and paid work, Terrance has consistently asked one question: What does this community actually need?
His approach is hands-on, no-nonsense, and deeply rooted in the belief that people don’t need to be saved—they need to be supported. Under his leadership, Choices Mentoring has become a trusted partner to probation offices, schools, and community organizations across Monroe.
When he’s not in the greenhouse, leading a workshop, or meeting with a program participant, you’ll find Terrance advocating for policy change, speaking to local media, or simply showing up—because that’s what he’s always done.
“When I started Choices, I didn’t have a blueprint—just a belief that one person showing up consistently could change a life. Fifteen years later, that belief has only grown stronger.”
Our Team
At Choices Mentoring, our team is made up of mentors, educators, community organizers, and advocates who are deeply invested in the people we serve. Many of our team members are Monroe natives who understand the challenges—and the potential—of this community.
We also rely on a strong network of volunteers, interns, and community partners who help us deliver programs, maintain our gardens and greenhouses, and show up for the youth and families we serve.