Big Buddy Program 1415 Main Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225)

The presenters’ views are not always in agreement with the views of other practitioners in the field. The presenters’ presentation is based on knowledge of the field, best-practice strategies, and over 30 years of experience liberating resources and designing program structures that work for young people. Please use the information to investigate its validity in your community.

Why Do You Mentor?

Poverty Crime Academic Failure

Why Do You Mentor? Why do youth come to your program? Poverty Crime Academic Failure

√ Relationship with caring and positive adults − High, clear and fair expectations √ Opportunities for participation − and contribution

Current high school graduation rate = 59% Youth are not prepared for college or careers, thus resulting in a negative outlook for life success Declining resources Where’s the product?

Dedicated and Trained Staff Community Partners with various resources (space, expertise, cash, people) Afterschool tutoring program Vehicles Board of Directors, many of who were business owners School partners Program funding Current success with elementary and middle school youth Mentors Reputation

Establish Consistency Provide Structure Offer Choice Allow for Social Interaction Allow for Leadership Opportunities Naming is important Training/Professional Development for all Parties in the Mentor/Mentee relationship.

Big Buddy Program 1415 Main Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) THANK YOU!