Are you a man over age 19 who is optimistic and has a good sense of humour?
If so, consider spending time with a young person who needs a big buddy.
Currently, there are 64 boys in the Campbell River area who need a mentor.
The boys, ages 6-18, are all on the waitlist for KidStart, a volunteer-based mentoring program offered by The John Howard Society of North Island (JHSNI).
This award-winning program connects vulnerable children and youth ages 6-18 with positive adult role models in Campbell River and the Comox Valley.
Mentors spend three hours per week with their young mentees, having fun and providing opportunities for their mentees to increase their self-confidence.
Campbell River resident Jonathon Shead is a KidStart mentor.
Shead has been mentoring for 12 years, presently for KidStart and previously for Big Brothers.
“I enjoy sharing activities with my mentee. I had good support from my own family growing up, so wanted to give back as an adult,” Shead said.
Colin Smythe, another Campbell River resident, said he has had the wonderful experience of being a KidStart mentor for three years.
“I do believe being with my mentee has helped with his self-esteem and confidence. We have had some great outings together and I look forward to seeing him every week,” Smythe said.
Do you like fishing? Walking? Animals? Nature? Music? Cooking? Biking? Playing board games?
There is a young person in the community who would love to spend time with you.
If you want to support KidStart but don’t have the time to be a mentor yourself, you can sponsor a child or youth’s involvement in the program through monthly payments as a KidStart Champion, or make a one-time donation.
Donations over $10 receive charitable tax receipts.
KidStart Champions receive a profile of the child they sponsor, annual updates, a KidStart Champion decal, and JHSNI membership.
KidStart is funded solely by grants, donations, and gaming funds, and needs community support.
To find out more about becoming a volunteer mentor or making a donation, contact Leanne at 250-286-0611 or leanne@jhsni.bc.ca.
Visit JHSNI online at www.jhsni.bc.ca/kidstartchampion.html