Big Brothers Big Sisters of Centre Wellington (BBBS) operates two school-based mentoring programs: In-School Mentoring and Go Girls.
These two initiatives are a cooperative effort involving the community, the public and Catholic school boards, area schools and BBBS in order to aid in the healthy development of children.
In-school mentoring (ISM) matches an adult volunteer or mentor with an elementary school child for one hour a week in a nearby school. It’s about building a friendship by sharing fun activities together such as crafts, games, Sports, reading, etc.
As in most friendships, there could be the opportunity to share feelings, experiences and accomplishments.
As a result, the student may develop improved self-esteem, social skills and more school involvement. ISM volunteers could be those working from home, university or college students, retirees or anyone who has an hour to spare.
BBBS also encourages local businesses to allow their employees to participate in the ISM program by giving them one hour off per week to spend volunteering.
The benefits to the company include improved public image, higher employee retention, and improved job performance.
Go Girls is a program designed to encourage physical activity, balanced eating and positive self-image in young women aged 12 to 14 in a fun, interactive environment. BBBS needs female volunteers aged 18 to 30 for the Go Girls program.
For more information about these two school-based programs, please call 519-787-0106, e-mail Bbbsofcw@aol.com or visit www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/centrewellington.
These programs are made possible through funding from the Ministry of Education.
