By Kath Gannaway
MEN will be boys. Craig Croft, Paul Dayman, Tim Russell and Damien Litchfield toss a basketball around like the pre-teen and teenage boys they are mentoring.
Damien and Paul are co-ordinators with the three-tier Anglicare boys’ mentoring programs Boys Will Be Men and Peaceful Warriors, which have run in Yarra Ranges since 2001, and follow-on Buddies program.
Tim and Craig are two of the team of volunteers who work with the boys from nine through to 17 years of age.
Anglicare is currently recruiting men for the Buddies program for boys 13 to 16.
“One of the goals of the 12-week course is to do group work around mental health, drugs and alcohol, explore attitudes towards violence, both in the community and towards women,” Damien said.
“It’s about helping the boys deal with adolescence and gain the skills to cope with adult challenges later in life.”
For boys growing up without positive role models in their lives, the program offers support and direction from positive, caring men.
Craig has been a volunteer for seven years and Tim for three years.
They have no doubts about the benefits of the programs to the boys, but say it is also a great way for men to connect and give something back to their community.
“You make a lot of good friends and most people will tell you they’re not sure who gets more out of it, the men or the boys,” Tim said.
Damien is calling on men with a few hours a week to spare to join the volunteer team and help local boys meet the challenges of adolescence.
An information night will be held at Anglicare, 47-51 Castella Street, Lilydale, on Monday 20 December starting at 6pm.
For more information, phone Damien or Paul on 9735 4188 or alternatively email to damien.litchfield@anglicare.vic.gov.au
