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Community Based Mentoring Program: Palm Beach

An Effective Practice

Description

The Community Based Mentoring Program matches an at-risk child aged 6-18 with a volunteer adult mentor, who serves as a positive role model. The child and mentor meet at community locations such as local beaches, parks, etc. The pairs meet at least twice a month and engage in various activities such as going to the movies or sporting events, playing at the park, working on homework, etc. Mentors commit to at least one full year of volunteer service with their matched child participants.

The children are referred for the program by an extended community network of teachers, friends and family members. The mentors have been screened and trained by the professional staff of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. The professional staff supports each child-mentor pair with ongoing training for the mentors.

Goal / Mission

The goal of the program is to make a positive difference in the lives of children, primarily through professionally guided one-to-one relationships with caring adults, and to assist them in achieving their highest potential, as they grow to become confident, competent and caring individuals.

Results / Accomplishments

Each year, participants in this and other Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties programs meet and exceed the following goals: 85% maintain or improve academically, 85% maintain or improve school attendance, 80% improve behavior and 90% meet case plan goals.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Primary Contact
Stacey Brownlow
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
5033 SE Federal Hwy
Stuart, FL 34997
772-283-8373
info@mentorbig.org
http://www.mentorbig.org
Topics
Education / Student Performance K-12
Community / Social Environment
Community / Civic Engagement
Organization(s)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Date of implementation
1985
Location
Palm Beach and Martin, FL
For more details
Target Audience
Children, Teens, Adults
Submitted By
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties