Program Summary:

Can you be a friend to a young person?

Red Cross is seeking enthusiastic and reliable adults to mentor secondary students and provide much needed encouragement and support.

Teen Mentoring is a Red Cross program in collaboration with five secondary colleges in East Keilor, Niddrie, Kealba, Laverton and Braybrook.

Each mentor visits a student (years 7-9) for an hour a week between school hours and on school premises.

Mentors support students in their adolescent development, promote self-esteem and school engagement, and help students prepare for life experiences beyond secondary school.  A 12-month commitment is required.  This timeframe yields the most positive outcomes for the young person.

Principal responsibilities of the role:
* Meet with a student for one school period each week on school grounds for the duration of a school year.
* Plan activities based on the shared interests and likes of the student and mentor.
* Encourage communication with the student by active listening and sharing.
* Reinforce positive behaviours.
* Provide encouragement that increases the student's engagement with school and other people.
* Assist the student to develop goal-setting skills.

Specific requirements:
* Interest in providing a humanitarian service.
* Ability to work within Red Cross Fundamental Principles.
* Interest in working with young people.
* Reliability.
* Communication and listening skills.
* Ability to work within operational policies and procedures and maintain confidentiality

The selection process involves an interview, police check, Working with Children Check, reference checks and training.

Volunteer training and ongoing support is provided.

For more information please contact Camille or call  8327 7753