Olympic Peninsula YMCA

Description Volunteers help nurture youth, improve health and well-being, and assist our neighbors in need. We value your time and enthusiasm, and look forward to creating a fun, fulfilling volunteer experience for you. Volunteers are high school students, caring adults and retirees who want to make an impact in a child’s life. The youth participant is a student who is referred by teachers, counselors, and parents to become a part of Building Futures program. The “matches” meet weekly for an hour at school to play sports, read books, write stories, create art and so much more.   About Building Futures Building Futures is a school-based mentoring program that matches local students with caring, supportive, and stable adult mentors. Mentors and their “Buddies” meet for one hour per week on school grounds, where they play games, read, make crafts, tell stories, and more! These 1st – 9th grade students are referred to the Y by their teachers, and occasionally by their parents, as children who would benefit from having some one-on-one time with a caring adult role model. Though some of these students struggle academically, this is not simply a tutoring program—it is our mission that with strong positive influences in their lives, these children will learn self-confidence, trust and will be better prepared to succeed in the future!   One hour DOES make a difference! School attendance improves Encourages higher education Fosters positive behavior Builds self-esteem Increases trust This program is a school-based mentoring program in partnership with the Port Townsend, Chimacum, Quilcene and Brinnon School Districts. Pre-existing Building Futures matches begin in September at the start of the school year. New matches are being made every day! Thanks to the generous donations of your local community this program is at no cost to the mentor or the participant.   Hours One hour per week, September through June. All matches are invited to two appreciation events throughout the year: one summer event (4 hours) and one spring dinner.   Minimum Requirements 16 years of age or older Pass a Washington state background check Ability to travel to various locations in Jefferson County Related experience for specific program Ability to relate well to children and adults Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations Have a strong sense of community Exhibit our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility