www.communityvoice.ie - Community stories from Dublin 15

30 volunteers in 30 days

The Big Brother Big Sister scheme is an internationally renowned one to one mentoring programme that matches a caring adult volunteer to a young person in need of extra support and motivation in life. It is based on the simple idea of friendship and how a good teenage and adult friendship can be life changing.

The Irish branch of the programme has been operated since 2001 by Foróige, the National Youth Development Organisation and it is affiliated to Big Brothers Big Sisters International Organisation, which has developed programmes in 37 countries throughout the world. It was first introduced to Blanchardstown in October 2006.

Clodagh Rogers, the programme’s Dublin 15 project officer, is very enthusiastic about the scheme. “It has come along way since its introduction to Blanchardstown,” she said. “There has been a great response from volunteers and young people.

“However, due to the decrease in male volunteers and the increase in male referrals to the programme, I am urging any males in the Blanchardstown community who would think they would be a good mentor to apply to the programme. We are going on a recruiting drive and are looking to get 30 volunteers on board in the next 30 days.”

The programme is based on the simple idea of friendship. It is within this friendship that the young person can learn and develop skills in decision-making, communication, assertiveness or taking responsibility. It is also an opportunity for a young person to gain support and advice from an adult in a friendly and caring environment.

From a mentor’s point of view, there is also much to be gained by entering into a friendship with a younger person. Because he / she is matched to a young person with similar interests to themselves it is a great opportunity to take time out from a hectic schedule, have some fun and do things that they haven’t done in years. Most importantly, for just one or two hours a week, the mentor can help a young person develop and gain confidence and independence.

“Sometimes the kids just need a little help or somebody outside the family they can talk to,” says Clodagh. “We are especially searching for outgoing, energetic and friendly volunteers who would be willing to spend one to two hours a week sharing their time and hobbies with participants (aged 10 to 18) who have applied to the programme.

“All volunteers must go through an application process which also includes being put through the Garda vetting process. If successful in application, full training, supervision and support will be given.

“So I am appealing to Dublin 15 residents to make this volunteering opportunity their new years resolution. They won’t regret it. Doing something worthwhile for others can be so rewarding,” says Clodagh.

Interested parties, male and female, can contact Clodagh on 086 859 6992 or 01 823 5293 or email clodagh.rogers@foroige.ie

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