The Smith Family needs 1500 volunteers by Christmas to deliver the charity’s 2016 iTrack online mentoring program that guides high school students in their post-school options.
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“Anyone considering becoming a volunteer mentor is urged to sign up today and make a positive difference to a student’s future,” The Smith Family NSW general manager Steve Macready said.
“Our iTrack program is reliant on our being able to find volunteer mentors. We have 1500 students across NSW in need of mentors from mid next year,” Mr Macready said.
“If we don’t recruit enough volunteer mentors now, these students will miss out on a truly valuable experience.”
iTrack was developed more than 10 years ago in response to research revealing that many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds disengaged from their education and dropped out of school during their teenage years.
The program pairs adult mentors with students in year 9 to 11 from schools in low socio-economic areas that have partnerships with The Smith Family.
Mentors chat with students via a secure online chat room, providing guidance, advice and encouragement about workplace, study and career opportunities.
“We live in an increasingly time-poor world, meaning fewer people feel they can take on commitments,” Mr Macready said.
“Volunteering is a chance to expand your skills and to boost your sense of wellbeing.
“No specialised skills are required to become an iTrack mentor.”
The program will begin in two bursts – in May and June next year – and the mentoring relationship runs for 18 weeks.
Those wishing to become a volunteer mentor in 2016 can register now via The Smith Family’s website: www.thesmithfamily.com.au.
