School Based Mentoring Program: Palm Beach

The School 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 the child's school for at least one hour each week during a related arts period (but the child does not miss any academic classes). Mentoring activities include tutoring, reading, learning or just spending time together. 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.

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.

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.