Thompson Rivers University in Canada will continue the Aboriginal mentorship Program thanks to a $350,000 gift from TD Bank Group.

The university will used the gift to maintain the program, which builds pathways for Aboriginal students to guide and support each other through university and beyond.

"Some Aboriginal students face significant challenges while they attend university," said Alan Shaver, president and vice-chancellor of Thompson Rivers University. "This generous gift from TD creates a sustainable model which supports students financially and through mentorship."

The gift, allocated over five years, will create an endowment for ongoing awards for students participating in Thompson Rivers University's Aboriginal Mentorship program.

"We are pleased to give back to [Thompson Rivers University] and the community in a very meaningful way through the Aboriginal Mentorship Program," said Mauro Manzi, senior vice president of TD Bank Group -- Pacific Region. "TD is committed to investing in the communities where our employees live and work and we are proud to be partnering with TRU to support such a worthy program."

Starting next year, student grants will be awarded annually. Two student mentors will each receive $5,000 and the two students who receive mentorship will each receive $2,000. Mentors are typically in their third or fourth year and mentees are in their first or second year. As mentees progress through their university years, it's anticipated they will take on roles as mentors themselves.

Tangible benefits for first- and second-year students include having a friendly and familiar face to turn to when in doubt or when experiencing anxiety. They can turn to mentors for insight, suggestions, study tips, tutoring and more. Mentors in turn will develop social skills, gain self-confidence and become familiar with the supports and programs available at the university.

Studies have shown that the outcomes of mentorship programs include better retention rates for students and improved grades due to peer support and an increase in self-confidence.