Local mentor volunteers needed for children

Responsible, caring adults are being sought as mentors for children, kindergarten through fifth grade, in our community.

“Wahkiakum Adult to Youth Mentoring has been successfully matching children with an adult friend for the past 13 years,” said Patti Phillips, Mentoring Coordinator at St. James Family Center.

An Informational meeting is scheduled Monday, December 5 at St. James Family Center, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., for adults wanting to know more about the program. Phillips will answer questions and explain what the commitment would involve. “I want to encourage all interested men and women to join us for this informational meeting,” added Phillips.

Currently, there is a waiting list of children whose families believe would benefit greatly from a mentoring relationship. “We are looking for people willing to fill the role of a friend – a positive, non-judgmental and supportive adult who would commit one hour per week to a young person, one on one,“ Phillips explained. There is a minimum commitment of one year and reference and background checks are completed.

Mentors and their youth might plan to spend time together sharing hobbies, enjoying or cooking a meal, going to after-school or sport functions, creating art projects or gifts for loved ones, riding bikes, planting a garden, doing puzzles, going to the library or park, and so much more.

For further information, contact Patti Phillips at St. James Family Center, 795-8612.