Strathcona Peer Mentorship Program
Sponsor: Downtown Eastside Safety Society
Youth Representative: Stephanie
The Strathcona Peer Mentorship Program will provide cultural and artistic opportunities for at-risk youth ages 11-12. They will be supported by positive peer ages 15-18 in order to assist in the development of self-identity, self-esteem and self expression.
The Strathcona Peer Mentorship Program would take place from April to August and support 10-15 at risk youth. Based on interest and gender, appropriate pairings will be made for activities, trips and culinary experiences pertaining to arts and culture.
A peer mentorship program would provide the support that an at-risk youth needs in order to build the self-confidence and self-esteem necessary to achieve his or her goals in life. The program will also provide and outlet for emerging leaders to exercise their leadership abilities while developing additional mentorship and facilitation skills. This would ultimately help to diminish teen dropout rates, petty crime, suicide and substance abuse.
The Strathcona Community Centre intends to adapt this peer prevention program to become a continued mentorship program through out the school year.
The goals for the Strathcona Peer Mentorship Program are:
- To give at-risk youth the opportunity to experience various cultural and artistic activities in order to assist in the development of self esteem and self-expression;
- Develop youth self-identity and belonging through the creation of strong community connections through mentorship and guidance. Thereby providing a positive environment to guide youth to be responsible and respectful citizens;
- Grant Grade 11 and 12 students the opportunity to impact in their community by utilizing their leadership skills learned at Strathcona community Centre; and,
- Offer relevant and accessible capacity for building and skills training for referred youth and student mentors through activities, games and excursions.
Contact Information
- Downtown Eastside Safety Society
Contact: Kate Hodgson
dtesno@telus.net
- Youth Contact: Stephanie
Killarney Youth in Action Mentorship website
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