We discovered we both enjoyed hot rods, the races at WIR, and playing
pool. Turning point in our match was when Will starting beating me at pool on a regular
basis!
~ Steve. |
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Mentoring
There are many opportunities to mentor a child through Best Friends. Teachers and school
counselors refer students to the program based on the students’ specific academic,
social and behavioral needs.
Community-Based Mentoring
Volunteers agree to get together with a child for a few hours each week. This time
can be spent doing fun activities together, sharing a meal, or just hanging out and
talking. We ask for a one-year commitment so the mentor and child can build a trusting
relationship.
Lunch Mentoring
(during school year)
Volunteers agree to spend one lunch hour each week with a student. Elementary-on campus;
Middle school and High School-off campus optional.
After-School Mentoring
(during school year)
A mentor and child get together in a group setting at a participating school for an hour
each week after school. Activities are planned and Best Friends staff is on-site to
facilitate the activities
The family program
In 1988 the Board of Directors of Best Friends established the Family Program to provide
supportive services for families whose children had been referred to Best Friends. Some of
the key services the Family Program provides are:
The Parents Advisory Committee (PAC)
A committee composed of parents that give suggestions on family activities and give
feedback on how Best Friends can better meet the needs of our families. Any parent can be
a member of the Parents Advisory Committee. It's a great way to meet other parents and
have fun.
Educational and Social Events
Best Friends provides seminars or speakers on topics of concern such as parenting skills,
pregnancy prevention and financial planning. Social events are several times a year that
entail fun and inexpensive activities for parents or families are held. These include
sailing, bowling, camping, or other fun events. Most activities are free, and some may
have a small fee. Families are expected to attend at least one recreational or educational
event per year.
Helping Hand Program
Provides help for children who need financial support for such things as camps, music or
dance lessons, sport activities, clubs such as Brigade or Scouts, classes at the YMCA, or
post high school education.
"Single Parent, Take a Break" Program
A fund where single parents can request financial assistance for an activity in which they
can take a break from the constant demands of raising children as a single parent.
Community Agency Referrals
The Best Friends staff also supports families by making referrals to other agencies at the
family’s request.
The Best Friends Newsletter
A bi-monthly publication containing helpful information, advice, news of agency and
community events and fun activities for children and families.
Video and Book Library
Videos and books on a wide range of topics such as abuse, Attention Deficit Disorder,
self-esteem and single parenting are available for checkout from the Best Friends office.
Volunteer Opportunities
Parents and children have many opportunities to volunteer for the Best Friends agency
where skills are learned and new friends are made. |
