Road Town, Tortola - Thirty-four men and women were recently inducted in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentorship Programme, under the Social Development Department, after completing the required training.

Coordinator of the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentorship Programme Mrs. Stacie Stoutt-James told the Department of Information and Public Relations that the compulsory training was the closing part of the application process for new mentors. “After that they signed a contract that is binding,” she said.

Minister of Health and Social Development Honourable Dancia Penn, OBE, QC gave remarks last Thursday morning before declaring the February 25-26 training open. The Minister, among other things, reiterated her personal support for the mentorship programme.
“I assure everyone of my commitment,” she said, while voicing her appreciation to past and present mentorship volunteers. “I thank all of you for being so giving and for caring so much,” the Minister said.

The programme’s Coordinator described last Friday’s session as a “refresher course” for persons who are already involved with the mentorship programme, to revitalise and motivate them. “Sometimes they can get discouraged and that is why we make sure they are given the tools to continue to want carry on their relationship with younger persons,” she added.

Mrs. Stoutt-James noted that she is looking forward to the quarterly general meetings with the new and existing mentors in addition to receiving input on how the programme can be further improved. She also reminded the public to visit the programme’s website, www.bvibbbs.org, to learn more or to apply to become a mentor.

The Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentorship Programme was launched in 2000, as a result of the Department’s realisation of the importance of community-based mentorship for children. This programme is about fostering strong and lasting relationships between young and older persons.