Youth mentoring works. That’s the inspiring message of Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), which provides young people with positive role models, friendship and guidance.
‘At BBBS, we’re not just changing lives – we’re redefining futures,’ declares Auckland Programme Manager Chelsey Harnell.
The registered charity was set up in 1996 in Nelson and now has 13 branches nationwide, including Auckland. Chelsey says the organisation provides vulnerable children aged 6-12 with a professionally supported, fully trained volunteer mentor. ‘Our mentors spend time with the young person, offering friendship and guidance,’ says Chelsey.
Often, these vulnerable youngsters have limited positive adult role models in their lives. BBBS mentors help fill the gap with an ongoing relationship that can continue until the young person is 18. ‘Our research shows that mentees are less likely to commit crime, skip school or use drugs and are better able to engage in school and society,’ Chelsey advises.
Mentors come from all ages and a wide variety of backgrounds. All that’s required is enthusiasm and a commitment to making a difference. ‘Our programme works on the principle of one hour, once a week, one life,’ Chelsy says.
Stef is just one of the many young people who benefit from BBBS. She experienced a chaotic childhood. Close family members were in and out of jail, and Stef moved around a lot. However, Stef’s life was transformed when she met her mentor, Kim. ‘This relationship was life-changing,’ says Chelsey. She adds that Kim provided Stef with a model of kindness, consistency, and resilience she had never experienced before.
Now, thanks to $20,000 from the Your West Support Fund, even more taiohi of The West will benefit from BBBS’s transformative service. The funding has gone towards supporting the Matchmakers programme. Chelsey says the service covers the costs of a match, like recruiting the mentor, assessing the child, training everyone involved, including the whānau, plus ongoing help and support. Chelsey said the funding supported eight matches, impacting around 50 people, including vulnerable youngsters, mentors and whānau.
BBBS is on the lookout for more compassionate volunteers to work as mentors. It’s an enriching experience that often transforms the mentor’s life just as much as the young person’s. BBBS would love to hear from you if you can spare a few hours a month for this worthwhile work. The charity also wants to hear from local businesses who would like to become involved by sponsoring a child’s journey.
Check out the website for more information.
