The Leadership Emporia class has pledged 400 hours to the YouthFriends project in 2007, and is asking that Emporians match that pledge.
YouthFriends volunteers meet with students once a week during the school year to take part in one-on-one activities. They range from being a lunch buddy to tutoring or mentoring, sharing an interest or hobby, or helping with homework. No special skills are necessary, other than being a good listener.
All volunteers are screened and trained free of charge, and any adult age 18 or over may apply.
“This just seemed to be something that would impact the community longer-term, that was kind of our thought,” said Gina Poertner who, with Chad Poland, is co-representative of the 2007 LE class.
Poertner said that the class also has committed to helping market the project to the community, to encourage area residents to spend one hour each week with a child.
Activities already have begun for the 21 LE 2007 class members.
“The past few weeks have been a lot of fun for us as well as for the kids,” said John Newland, an LE YouthFriends volunteer. He and classmate Jake Kvaal are coaching Lowther basketball players.
For more information about becoming a YouthFriends volunteer, or to request an application, call Margi Grimwood, 341-2450, or e-mail mgrimwoo@usd253.org.