By Tate Papworth
An organisation which supports young people in schools is calling for volunteers.
EdConnect, a not-for-profit organisation, aims to help young people who are at-risk of becoming disengaged at school.
Under the program, volunteers work with students, providing them with support for both education success and wellbeing.
The program has run in Victoria for the past 14 years and is now placing a focus on Caroline Springs.
EdConnect liaison officer Rhonda Velkovski said it was a great way for older generations to pass on some wisdom.
“Sixty three per cent of our volunteers are over 55 years of age,” she said.
“We are harnessing the wisdom and skills of elder generations and communities are becoming enriched and young people are thriving.”
She said the results speak for themselves.
“All of our schools have reported the improvement of student self-esteem and confidence,” she said.
“While 91 per cent of at-risk students have improved literacy and 87 per cent of students have improved in numeracy.”
In Caroline Springs, volunteers help and support students in a homework club between 3-4pm Wednesdays and/or Thursdays weekly.
The program has recently placed a volunteer at Taylors Lakes Secondary College as part of its focus on the west.
Volunteers undergo a thorough recruitment and screening process, as well as a comprehensive training program to ensure they have the skills and ability to work with primary or secondary school students.
To become a volunteer call 1800 668 550 or visit www.edconnect.org.au
