By Jasmine Franklin
One hour per week has helped to change the lives of Ponoka children involved with the Big Brother Big Sister in-school mentoring program — doubling participants for this school year.
“This is great too see,” said Morgen Chernick, program director and case worker. “We’ve really seen a growth for the 2009/2010 school year.”
There are 62 youths involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, more than 40 of those are participating in the in-school mentoring program.
“The kids just love it,” Chernick said. “It’s exciting to talk to them about their matches and see their eyes just light up.”
For one hour per week, a mentor — anyone qualified who is over 18 years of age — is matched with a child within the community and meets with the child at their school to work on activities such as crafts, reading and just spending time with one another.
Chernick did stress, however, that all mentors have a police background check and go through a thorough screening process before being approved. In-school mentors are not allowed to meet with the children outside of school.
“It’s a small time commitment that makes a huge difference for these kids,” Chernick said. “Most of them become more happy, self-confident and outgoing. It’s a great program.”
Mentors within the Ponoka community range from ages 18 to 88, Chernick said. By the end of November the program will have 47 in-school mentors.
“Our goal is to see that every child in Ponoka who needs a mentor will get one,” Chernick said. “We’ve also received a lot of feedback on how good it was for the mentor as well as the child.”
There is no deadline to become a mentor, and Chernick said a lot of businesses have been great with scheduling flexibility.
“Some schools are actually willing to accommodate the volunteer’s schedule because the program has been so effective for their kids.”
To become a mentor, contact Chernick and the Youth Centre at (403) 783-3112. For additional information visit www.ponokayouthcentre.com