In School Mentoring Program
The In-School Mentoring Program is a way to get involved with a child. It allows volunteers (mentors) to share time with a child in their school during the school day. Mentors meet with their littles (students) following the 20-20-20 rule: 20 minutes of getting to know each other and catching up, 20 minutes of school work or reading, and 20 minutes of free time. In addition to friendship, the focus is on literacy, social support and classroom support. Volunteers in this program are meeting youth in their schools during the school day (lunch hours even!). Matches in this program do not meet over the summer. Great opportunity for businesses to support their employees to get involved in a local volunteer program, and only have to give up an hour of their time each week!
Click here to see a map of schools that offer In-School Mentoring.
Teen Bigs
The teen mentoring program is run in partnership with the high school (currently at J A Williams Secondary School and Ecole Plamondon). Teen mentors are provided with training and support, and then matched to an elementary youth. This program does run through the school day; teens must have parent permission to participate. Any youth interested in learning more about how they might become involved as a teen mentor can inquire through their school or reach out to Lori at lori.beniuk@bgcbigs.ca or 780.623.0380.
Click here to see a map of schools that are in need of In-School mentors.
Healthy Bodies/Healthy Minds and Game On! Group Mentoring Programs
These group programs are new to Lac La Biche and area schools in fall 2021. They are run in partnership with schools and based on school referrals. These group mentoring programs are geared to youth in grades 5-8, and focus on physical activity, nutrition, self-esteem, communication and healthy lifestyles. Anyone interested in volunteering with these programs would be provided training and support. Volunteers must be able to commit to weekly group meetings for a 10 week duration (fall, winter and spring). Anyone interested in learning more about this new volunteering opportunity can reach out directly to Lori at lori.beniuk@bgcbigs.ca or call her at 780.623.0380.
What To Expect
- Build a special friendship with a young person and have fun together.
- Talk, listen, support, guide, encourage – believe in them and help them believe in themselves.
- Keep others informed about what you’re doing.
- Keep in touch with your staff contact person and ask questions as they arise. We also really like hearing about your experiences!
- Provide a safe, responsible environment for the child in your care.
- Be a mentor, a role model to a child
- Ensure the safety of our children and youth and our volunteers.
- Work with you to match you with a young person or program where your interests and availability are considered.
- Assign a direct contact person to provide support and establish expectations and follow up requirements.
- Provide orientation and training so you know what to expect.
- Help you be successful!
Children & Youth With A Mentor Are…
%
More Likely to Graduate
%
Less Likely to Rely on Social Services
%
More Likely to Have Improved Relationships
Children & Youth have increased confidence, self-esteem & sense of hope • Children get better academic grades • Children have improved school attendance • Children experience more positive interactions with peers, parents, & teachers • Children have better social and communication skills • Children are more likely to finish high school • Children are less likely to get involved with criminal activities