Emileigh Ward and Cayla Mcfadden enjoy a barbecue at Victoria Esplanade with Big Brothers Big Sisters Manawatū. Photo / Sonya Holm
One hour a week, for one year, will change a life.
This is the favourite phrase of Big Brothers Big Sisters.
The organisation matches young people to a role model and mentor from the community.
An hour a week makes a difference to a child’s confidence and assists with making better life choices, Big Brothers Big Sisters Manawatū manager Dean Chapman says. It’s the reliability and consistency that counts.
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The average age of mentees, also known as littles, is 12, with the programme helping those aged 7 to 17.
The reasons for joining vary – “whether Dad’s out of the picture or, heaven forbid, Mum’s passed away” – and they receive referrals from a number of areas.
“We work closely with the police and community…
