Mates mentoring

What is a mentor?  What are the benefits of being a mentor?   Here is an opportunity to help a young person in the community.

What is Mates mentoring

Relationship is critical to mentoring. Our aim at Temcare is to link one adult Christian with one young person in the community. Regular contact is organised, activities planned and a relationship formed within a safe, caring and accepting environment. 
Peer mentoring involves the regular contact with a single mum in the community. This aims to build a positive and meaningful relationship where practical support and emotional/spiritual encouragement are provided.

In 2010, Temcare will continue their support to Endless Horizons in Campbellfield. Endless Horizons provides a safe and fun venue for children and young people between 5-15 on a monthly basis. The children and young people participate in a range of on site activities. Regular discussions are also held with the young people. For more information, please contact Jim Mangioros on 0433 302 790.

Mates Camp

Each year, Temcare volunteers and their mentees attend a weekend camp. This is a safe, fun and meaningful time away which helps strengthen the relationships between the volunteers and the young people. A range of activities and discussions are held throughout the weekend. 

Who are the volunteers

Mates volunteers are committed to the well being of young people. They are Christians who bring their own life experiences. Volunteers undertake an accreditation process which involves an interview, Working With Children and character checks, training and a meeting with members of the Temcare committee. Mates volunteers are also provided with ongoing support and training.

What do you do?

In mentoring, relationships are formed through activities and time spent with a young person. Going to the movies, a bike ride or even just having something to eat together are examples of the activities that can be organised. Volunteers are reimbursed $10 for each contact to help cover some basic costs. Temcare will inform volunteers of local activities, discounts and free entry into different venues.        

“he always looks forward to seeing him and he is always happy when he gets home” (Caregiver of 13 year old boy)

What are the benefits?

The benefits are great for young people who join the program. The support from a caring adult is positive and can have long term effects. 

“just being a friend" (boy, aged 13)

For volunteers, mentoring provides a way to develop life skills, meet other people and can help with career choices. It's a great way for a young person to spend regular time with an accepting adult.

Who can join?

For a young person between 10-15 years of age - a worker can be contacted on (03) 9852 9795. A visit by the worker will explain more about the program and answer any questions.

For an interested volunteer - Christian adults interested in being a mentor can click on  becoming a volunteer to submit an expression of interest online. A worker will post you the relevant information and registration form. Alternatively, a worker can be contacted on (03) 9852 9795.

To read the Mates Purpose and Objective statement, please click  here.

 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.  Galatians 2:20