Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington is seeking volunteers to mentor youth in their School Buddies program. Currently, the School Buddies program is looking for volunteers to mentor students in Whitney, Island View, and Fidalgo Elementary Schools in Anacortes; Washington Elementary School in Mount Vernon; and Lucille-Umbarger Elementary School in Burlington.

A mentor spends one-hour a week with a student. During this time, they may work on homework, school projects, or participate in recreational activities such as basketball, crafts, or reading. Mentors are matched with a student based on compatible interests, coupled with an assessment of the strengths of the volunteer and the needs of the student.

Students in the School Buddies program experience a wide range of social and psychological benefits including enhanced self-esteem, improved decision-making skills, better academic performance, and a lower incidence of self-destructive behavior. Also, volunteers get the benefit of knowing they have had a positive influence. If you would like to volunteer as a mentor, or if you would like additional information about the School Buddies program, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington at their Skagit County office at 360-428-7679 or skagit1@bbbs-nw.org.

Also, feel free to visit their website for more information, www.bbbs-nw.org.