Standing Tall, a school-based youth mentoring program, wrapped up for 2014 with an “appreciation night” to thank the 35 mentors who volunteer their time each week. 

Program co-ordinator Gary Parsons said listening to the students speak publicly about their experience in the program was the highlight of the evening.  

“They spoke really well. It was so pleasing to see them speak positively about the program and how much they have taken from the program,” he said. 

The early intervention program is aimed at students in years 7 and 8. It recruits and trains members from the local community to become mentors who spend an hour a week with their mentee during school hours. 

The focus is on providing the young person with support and encouragement from a caring adult. Mentors don’t replace parents or teachers but simply offer someone who is a good listener and who can provide support and encouragement. 

Studies have shown a one-to-one relationship between a student and caring adult outside the family environment is an important factor in dealing with early disengagement while at school.

Mr Parsons said that this year Standing Tall in Warrnambool had held 382 mentoring sessions, provided a total of 14,120 mentoring hours and trained 40 community volunteer mentors. 

He said Friday’s event was also a “recruitment launch” for next year’s program. 

“We have more students coming into the program next year and as such need about 12 more mentors,” Mr Parsons said. 

“We are after volunteers of all ages to go through the training program and commit one hour a week, during school hours. 

“It’s a two-way program. The mentors take so much away from the program as well, they all say it’s a very rewarding experience.” 

For more information about becoming a mentor, contact Mr Parsons on 0408 353 740.