Innovative Mentoring Program of the SVDP

The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland is coordinating the establishment of
mentoring programs in the Logan/Beaudesert area.

THE COORDINATOR of an innovative community mentoring program has urged community
members in the Logan area to lend their “time and talents” to support local high school
students on a weekly basis.

David McGovern, from the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland, said church-goers from
all faiths and people involved in community organisations are ideally placed to influence
young people.

“Being a mentor enables a person to make a difference and to impact positively on
another person’s life,” Mr McGovern said.
“An ideal mentor would be someone who is working, studying or retired and who can
spare two hours a week, for up to nine months.
Church and community leaders have been urged to encourage their members, emphasising
the importance of “sharing oneself with those less fortunate”.

Training is available for prospective mentors, as well as ongoing support and supervision.
The Community Mentoring Program has been established to assist young people in both
the Logan and Beaudesert areas to achieve their learning, employment and life goals.
Up to 20 volunteers are sought for the next intake. Each mentor will provide individual
support to students from Woodridge and Kingston High Schools, on a weekly basis and
provide them with support and encouragement.

The program, funded by the Department of Education and the Arts, is an important new
initiative under the Queensland Governments Education and Training Reforms for the
Future (ETRF) which aims to provide more support for young people to complete their
education and training.

The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland is coordinating the establishment of
mentoring programs in the Logan/Beaudesert area.
Mr McGovern said mentors will be required to attend a short interview. Successful
applicants also will be required to undergo a police criminal history check and will be
supported to apply for the mandatory Blue Card.
He said those who wanted to find out how their church or organisation can take part in
the mentoring program can contact him on (07) 3010 1032 or 0437 733 451, or send an
email to david.mcgovern@svdp-qld.org.au.