PACIFIC, WAHKIAKUM – The Wahkiakum Community mentoring program is seeking young people, especially from single-parent families, who may benefit from being linked with an adult mentor in our community. Currently this program is being offered at both sides of Wahkiakum County and is overseen by the Wahkiakum Community Network and funded through a Drug-Free Communities Grant.

Parents from Grays River and Naselle who may be interested in this opportunity for their child should call Becky Kuhl at St. James Family Center, at (800) 350-8622.

Several matches, or one-on-one adult to youth pairs, have been made in the east portion of the county since it began last year and plans are to develop interest in the west end as soon as possible.

The focus of this community based program is to align youth with caring, responsible adults who want to share some time and become a friend to a young person. It is believed that young people with mentors are more likely to stay in school and get better grades, they will be less likely to become involved in high-risk behaviors, and they are more likely to develop personal goals. And often times, single parents can also benefit greatly from having an added supportive adult involved in their children’s lives.

Children in grades kindergarten through five will be served by this program, will meet with their mentors about one- to two-hours per week, and will be matched in same sex pairs. Pairs will do leisurely activities together, such as walking, biking, sharing a meal, visiting a library, sharing mutual hobbies, and more. All suitable mentors are screened thoroughly, are provided with training prior to beginning their involvement with their selected child, and receive ongoing support.

Family support staff from the St. James Family Center in Cathlamet will be working with local families to find the best matches between youth and adults. The program will offer support to youth, their parents and the mentors involved on an ongoing basis.

Again, parents from Grays River and Naselle who may be interested in learning more about this mentoring program, should call Becky Kuhl at St. James Family Center, (800) 350-8622 as soon as possible. Adults interested in more information about becoming trained as a mentor may also call St. James Family Center.