[ On the Taieri the programme is called Great Mates ]
The Buddy Programme enriches the lives of children and young people, 4 to 12 years old and right across Otago, with time, friendship, fun, and encouragement.
It does this by matching them with carefully selected and trained adult volunteers who share with them in healthy activity such as walking on the beach or in the park, exploring, reading, talking, playing games or musical instruments, modeling, knitting, sewing, baking, drawing, painting, fishing, visiting the museum or art gallery; low or no cost activities that encourage positive interests, attitudes, values and behaviours.
OUR VISION
Our vision is for children and young people to be enthusiastic about life, and be actively and positively involved with the world.
WHAT DOES BEING A BIG BUDDY INVOLVE?
- Spending 2-3 hours each week with a young Buddy
- Being available for at least a year
- Reporting to programme staff and attending a buddy programme meeting of 1½ hours each month
WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?
- The satisfaction of knowing you are making a significant contribution to the young Buddy’s social and emotional well-being
- Training, new experiences, insights and skills
- Ongoing support
- New friends and social connections
HOW DO I FIND OUT MORE?
Email: buddy@psotago.org.nz, or contact your local co-ordinator to arrange an interview time.
Phone 03 477 7116
For contact with Taieri Great Mates: taierigreatmates@psotago.org.nz
The first interview is largely an exchange of information session that usually takes about 20 minutes. At the conclusion of this conversation you may choose to take an application pack that includes the nomination of four referees and authorization of a police check.
THEN... all going well, you will be invited to attend the initial training course. This involves a Saturday or Sunday, followed by a three hour session on a week night.
Since its development in 1992, New Zealand's foremost Buddy Programme has held safe practice as a high priority. All policies, procedures and practices, including those for selection, training, support, and supervision, reflect that commitment.
[ In other areas the programme is called Buddy Programme ]
WHAT IS GREAT MATES?
Great Mates is a partnership between Presbyterian Support Otago and the Mosgiel, North Taieri and East Taieri Presbyterian Churches.
It is based on the successful Family Works Buddy Programme and focuses on young people on the Taieri aged between 8 and 14 who are in need of positive interests, attitudes, values and behaviour.
To find out more contact :
Helen Pannett, 477 7115 or taierigreatmates@psotago.org.nz
