ABOUT THE MINISTRY

Mission and Vision:

Youth Mentoring's vision  is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships.

History:

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers and Big Sisters is the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States. In 2004, the organization served more than 225,000 youth ages 5 - 18, in 5,000 communities across the country, through a network of 470 agencies. National research has shown that the positive relationships between Big Brothers and Big Sisters  and their Littles have a direct, measurable, and lasting impact on children's lives. For example, Littles are 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 52% less likely to skip school, and are more confident in their schoolwork performance.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Student Coordinator:

        - Jessanna Hall

        - Office Ext: 5097

        - Email: jh1395@messiah.edu

How Messiah College Students Can Help:

Messiah Students can volunteers with either club or the After School Program. Most students go one weekday each week. But volunteer can participate as often as they wish each week.

Club: Volunteers leave Messiah around 3pm. Volunteers can stay as late as they would like. Club is usually open until 7:300pm. Club is a time for voluteers to have fun with their buddy. A typical Club experience involves time to play outside or in the gym, eating a meal, and crafts. The programsprovides structures and offers a safe meeting place, which appeals to parents, children, and volunteers. Club grew out of a pilot project funded by a 2001 grant.

Lunch Buddy: Volunteers provide Littles with one-on-one time and attention in their schools, typically once a week during the academic year. Teachers identify children who can benefit most from interaction with a caring adult. Volunteer's go to their buddy's school and eat lunch, go to recess, or attend reading period with them. As their friendships evolve, volunteers and children discove ways to make school and learning fun.