A small investment of time can deliver huge impacts to young people's lives, according to youth mentor Shelbie Strauss.
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As little as two hours a fortnight - "that's less time than we spend on our phones" is all that's required to be part of a mentoring program run through The Hive Youth Resource Centre.
The call is going out for the next round of mentors to help support a young person through three school terms in 2021.
It's been an absolutely wonderful experience, says Shelbie, 26, who was matched with Macky Cusick, 17, during 2020.
"I never knew how much you can make someone's day by just being there ... you can really bring something out in someone," Shelbie said.
"This is a great program and I definitely learned a few things from Macky as well.
"I've gained a little friend out of this experience."
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The pair faced a few obstacles meeting up during the worst of COVID-19 but managed some great interaction utilising The Hive space and also a few outings for lunch and an ice-cream at Lake Hume.
"When our face-to-face contact stopped, I learned there are so many apps you can use to keep in touch," Shelbie laughed.
For Macky, having the support of a person like Shelbie was "a comforting environment all the way through".
"I felt comfortable to be open," Macky said.
"It was definitely nice to have an older friend and to go out into the world and have new experiences ... to have happy memories."
Macky, who is developing her leadership skills as part of Yes Unlimited's Change Makers committee, said she now felt bolstered to go back and finish her education (at Albury's Indie School).
"That's my dream and I'm starting to get back on track with school," she said.
Being able to listen and commuicate, having some social skills and a great deal of compassion is the key to being a good mentor to a young person, according to Macky.
The aim is to work towards becoming a friend, role model and guide for the young person, explains Yes Unlimited's community engagement co-ordinator Michelle Milligan.
"That will involve completing activities shaped by your shared interests and taking a genuine interest in their life," she said.
Prerequisites to become a mentor include being over the age of 18 years, being prepared to pass a National Police Check and Working with Children's Check and being willing to undertake training.
Applications close on December 22, 2020.
- Register your interest in becoming a mentor by phone (Michelle Milligan) on 0400 107 001 or email communityengagement@yesunlimited.com.au
