Mentoring program seeks volunteers

Circle of Friends has an immediate need for adult volunteers with a heart to make a positive difference in the life of a child. Their program works to match kids in difficult circumstances with an adult mentor, someone willing to commit to come alongside them and "to be their big friend," says Beth Hanson, director of the program.

Together with Sisters Elementary School principal and kindergarten teacher Barbara Kamrath, Hanson has identified a number of kindergartners and first graders whose lives would be enriched by additional caring relationships.

The mentorship program's goal is to help kids develop the skills necessary to break the cycles of poverty, abuse, and violence, in order to become contributing members of their community.

While social service agencies might tag these children "at-risk youth," based on risk factors that place them in danger of not living up to their potential, Circle of Friends builds on the tenet that these kids are at-risk for success. The most important predictor of a child's success, asserts the program, is the presence of a positive adult role model in their life.

Their conviction is based on the success of a model program founded in Portland in 1993 by Sisters resident Duncan Campbell. Despite a challenging childhood, Campbell made a promise to himself that one day he would help other children triumph over similar adversity.

The program's approach is two-fold: start early - ideally, between ages five and seven, before negative behaviors have been established; and stay for the long haul. A consistent, caring presence in a child's life over the complete course of their school years offers the greatest amount of benefit.

Says Hanson, "It's not overnight; it's over time."

"Friends" spend time with their child once or twice a week for a total of two to four hours. They might help with homework, toss them a ball, take them to lunch, or attend their school functions. As a result, the child is more likely to develop self-confidence, life skills, social skills, academic success, and to discover their individual talents, says Hanson.

"Every day (you spend with the child) you know you're there for a purpose."

Friends are asked to commit for a minimum of one year. They receive extensive training, close supervision, and ongoing support and resources.

Circle of Friends has other volunteer needs in addition to mentors. Hanson could use folks for a variety of tasks such as organizing craft materials, troubleshooting computer issues, grant writing, and event planning. Other practical needs are monetary donations and supplies.

The program relies on community support in the form of donations and grants for its continued existence. Previously, they've received grants from BendBroadband and the City of Sisters. They work in tandem with other local agencies such as the Family Access Network.

Says Hanson, "We're here to work together, but mainly we're here for the kids."

To learn more about building a sustained relationship that could change a child's life for the better, RSVP for one of the informational meetings scheduled for Thursday, September 13 or Saturday, September 29 at 9 a.m. Contact Beth Hanson at 541-588-6445 or email [email protected]