Buddy Programme

The Buddy Programme enriches the lives of children 4 to 12 years old and right across Otago, with time, friendship, fun, and encouragement.

This programme contributes to the emotional and social well-being of children by matching them with carefully selected and trained adult volunteers in a well-supported mentoring relationship.

Aims:

• Increase children's self esteem
• Develop social skills and help children make positive choices
• Provide opportunities for new social experiences and different activities
• Friendship, support, guidance and encouragement
• Fun and happiness

Adult Buddies are:

• Adults who are there to listen, support and encourage their Young Buddy
• People to hang out and have fun with once a week for 2-3 hours
• Adults aged 18 years and over
• Women and men from varied backgrounds and life experiences
• Adult role models who can provide a healthy adult/child relationship

The Buddy Programme runs in six locations across Otago. These include Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, Oamaru, Balclutha and Dunedin.