Bridging the Generation Gap
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Moncton is
launching a new mentoring initiative, Between
Generations. This intergenerational mentoring
program aims to forge meaningful connections
“across” the generations to bridge the age gap
within the Greater Moncton community. Between
Generations provides an important venue for
the mobilization of talents, skills, energy and
resources of older adults in support of our younger
generation. support. They may be struggling in school, new
immigrants, dealing with bullying issues, or are shy
or lonely.
This new program represents a creative way for
the agency to meet the demands of the 60 children
currently waiting for a mentor in Greater Moncton.
BBBS is looking to reach the growing population
of adults over the age of 50 to serve as mentors
to children facing adversity. We are giving young
people access to new opportunities and experiences,
to build their confidence, and to expand their idea
of what is possible. Caring adults provide children with a sense of
belonging and acceptance, factors known to foster
mental health. Mentoring can lead to a reduction
in poverty and unemployment, to safer schools and
neighbourhoods, and to a renewed optimism for
growth. With the knowledge and experience gained
over the years, volunteers can give children positive
insight and help them see into the future.
Through mentoring programs, the young and
the young at heart can share their knowledge,
experience, and talents while supporting each
other in relationships that are beneficial to both
the individuals and the community. Children can
acquire social and coping skills, find new interests,
and most importantly, have someone or something
to care about.
Volunteers are matched with an elementary school-
aged child throughout the school year and meet
once a week. All activities happen at school, during
school hours. Examples of fun-based activities
are crafts, Do It Yourself projects, games, baking,
playing in the park or going on short walks.
The children in the program are identified by school
staff and are boys and girls, ranging from grades
1 through 6 who could benefit from attention and
It has been proven that children who meet regularly
with their Big are 52% less likely to skip school,
27% less likely to begin using alcohol, and 46%
less likely to begin illegal drug use. Remarkably,
83% of children report a growth in self-confidence
with the help of a supportive role model.
There have been numerous studies that have
demonstrated the different benefits for mentors
relating to health, life satisfaction and involvement.
According to research conducted by one Big
Brother Big Sisters agency, older adults who
participate in a mentoring program have reported
a higher rating in life satisfaction in areas such as
enthusiasm, fortitude, and positive self-concept.
Big Brothers Big Sisters provides strong accredited
programs with demonstrated efficacy in changing
lives. We are committed to expanding services and
developing new ideas until every youth in need
has a mentor of their own. If there is one thing we
know, it’s that mentoring matters!
For more information, please contact the agency
at 506-857-3074 or reception.moncton@
bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.
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