Teen mentoring program expands to Blackfalds
As a part of the Winter 2024 round of the Community Foundation’s Community Microgrant program, a grant was awarded to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District to expand their Teen Mentoring Program to Iron Ridge Elementary Campus in Blackfalds, after the success of the program in Lacombe.
The teen mentoring program creates belonging and community by matching teen mentors with elementary students for opportunities to spend time together during school hours. The goal of the program is to address social isolation and community wellness gaps, two areas that were identified in a recent Social Needs Assessment. This program fills those gaps by providing young students with role models, resilience, and social connections.
“We have really witnessed the connections between mentors and mentees grow since the program started,” says Jen Harty, BBBSLD Community Engagement Director. “The teen mentoring program isn’t just about individual growth, it’s about building a stronger, more interconnected community. The teen mentors have played a vital role in supporting the mentees social development and emotional well-being. At the same time, the mentors have experienced their own personal growth, enhancing their communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities,” Harty continued.
Once a week, the trained teen mentors are provided transportation to the elementary school where they meet with their mentees to spend time together. The pairs are given access to a multi-purpose makers space, a games cupboard, craft supplies, and the playground and outdoor spaces. Together, each pair choose the activities they want to complete together. Through this regular quality time, teen mentors have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills while offering elementary-aged children the comfort and connection they need.
