Shire calls for mentors

By Shannon Twomey
MENTORS are in high demand at the Shire of Yarra Ranges Youth Services.
As part of their youth mentoring program, Jindi Woraback, the Youth Services department is always on the lookout to recruit new members.
Mentoring project worker Amanda Wiggs said the program offered an alternative for young people aged between 12 and 25 in need of support and friendship.
“The program is available to youths who live, work or study within the Shire of Yarra Ranges,” Ms Wiggs said.
“Our mentoring program is based on having fun, sharing interests, and enjoying recreational activities. It offers additional support, friendship and personal development for youths.”
She said the project allowed both one-to-one community mentoring and group mentoring, including a trip to the movies or the football, and homework groups.
“Our mentors act as role models and encourage new experiences and opportunities,” Ms Wiggs said.
“Some activities have included going for a bike ride, kicking a footy, shopping, going to the movies, trips to the zoo or to the city, or simply having a milkshake together.”
Group tutorials are spent at the Lilydale Library each week.
“Not only does the group time help students with learning, it also allows them to meet new people and create friendships.” Ms Wiggs said.
All mentors are volunteers and must participate in a selection and training process to be matched with a young person.
Female mentors are matched with female youths and male mentors are matched with male youths.
“All of the mentors we have are exceptional people, and we support and value them through the process,” Ms Wigg said.
“Currently we have a need for male mentors aged between 18 and 35.”
The selection process for mentors includes an information session, application form submission, reference checks, police checks, working with children checks, psychological tests, interviews, home visits, and supervision and training.
Anyone interested in learning more about the program can contact Amanda Wiggs from the Shire of Yarra Ranges on 92946716 or 0409396253.