(Submitted photo/Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince Albert)

By Dawson Thompson

Mentoring Matters

National Big Brothers Big Sisters Day brings awareness to the importance of mentorship

Sep 18, 2021 | 8:00 AM

Today is a very exciting day for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince Albert as it is a celebratory day for the organization with Big Brothers Big Sisters Day across Canada.

“It is a day to raise awareness about the importance of mentoring,” Natasha Thomson, development coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince Albert told paNOW. “Mentoring is an intervention that helps young people deal with adversity and become all that they can be.”

Due to COVID restrictions, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince Albert will not be hosting an in-person celebration this year, but staff will still be available online or by phone to answer any questions regarding mentorship.

She added that awareness to the program is very important, so days like this are very good reminders.

“We want people to remember that mentorship matters,” Thomson added. “Having a mentor can really be a life-changing experience. We know that the trauma from adverse childhood experiences can last a lifetime, and our goal is to prevent that.”

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The program has been matching children with mentors in Prince Albert since 1971.

“We also provide mental health supports, we build developmental relationships” Thomson said. “Our services are free of charge to families.

“For 50 years we have been working towards a healthier community by helping young people overcome challenges, and we just want to step in before it’s too late.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic they have had difficulties finding new mentors, and are actively looking for volunteers.

“We are currently doing a recruitment drive for mentors because during the pandemic it has been difficult to recruit volunteers. Some people have been hesitant,” Thomson added.

She said they will be continuing recruitment in October. Any donations can be made on their website, or information about mentorship can be found there as well.

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Dawson.thompson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @dawsonthompson8