Hackensack

Children are confronted with adverse challenges, at home and in life, and are experiencing social, emotional and behavioral problems. Mentors serve as positive role models; provide guidance, friendship and support; and advocate on behalf of children when necessary. The next 3-week Mentoring Youth training program begins on January 27, 2016. Sessions run on consecutive Wednesday evenings, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, 64 Passaic Street in Hackensack. There is an especially great need for men to mentor boys and for bi-lingual, Spanish speaking mentors of both genders. Mentors show children a different perspective, expose them to unexplored opportunities and help them to build trust. According to a study by Big Brothers/Big Sisters, youth who regularly meet with a mentor are 52% less likely than peers to skip school and 46% less likely to use drugs. Additionally, they are 33% less likely to hit someone or to start drinking. By sharing fun activities and exposing a youth to new experiences, mentors encourage positive choices, promote high self-esteem, support academic achievement and introduce young people to new ideas. For more information contact Eva Tobias at 201-489- 9454 x-209 or visit www.ber- genvolunteers.org