THE CHALLENGE
More than 1 in 5 first-year students don't make it to year two.
Source: National Student Clearinghouse, 2025
1,000,000+
students dropping out each year
The long-term financial and emotional effects can be serious. Getting through the first year can be the make-or-break moment in a young person's life.
How it works
Sunday Sentinels is built around a Sunday table. A student joins a local host family at their table for a meal about one evening a week, and that is the whole time commitment.
Each Sunday table holds up to 4 students. Host families decide how many students they can seat, and the table stays small by design.
Sentinels set their own rate. Every host family chooses what to charge for a seat at their Sunday table, so the cost is set by the family hosting it rather than by a central price list.
Screening is run by the local Licensee. Host families are screened by the Licensee for their area before a table opens, and that screening is handled locally rather than centrally.
So the model is simple: a Sunday table, about one evening a week, up to 4 students per table, a rate the Sentinel sets, and screening run by the local Licensee.
OUR STORY
See How It Works
WHAT WE PROVIDE
A Complete Support System
Everything students and families need for a safe, supported college experience.
FOR SENTINELS
Meaningful Income,
Meaningful Impact
As a Sentinel, you open your home one evening a week — hosting a Sunday meal and being a steady presence for local college students. You decide what to charge. Families across Charleston are earning meaningful supplemental income while giving back.
You Set the Rate
Choose a monthly fee that works for your family — every Sentinel sets their own price.
~1 Evening / Week
One Sunday meal per week is all it takes. Sentinels can host up to 4 students.
Purpose + Paycheck
Give back to your Charleston community while earning extra income for your family.
4,000+
Incoming Students
150
Sentinels Expected
2
Respected Colleges
15 mi
Max Distance
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Browse our detailed FAQ covering everything about the program, fees, safety, and more.
Important: Sunday Sentinels™ is not affiliated with or approved by any colleges. It is an independent organization purposed to provide arms-length and impartial opportunities for students to find appropriate Sunday Sentinel mentors.
SERVING STUDENTS AT
The College of Charleston
Charleston Southern University