The Buddy Program

We all recognize that it is very important for every adolescent  to have good role models.  Many of our young people have never experienced positive friendships, nurturing or trusting relationships.  Our focus in our residential programs is to emphasize positive relationship building skills and Volunteers in The Buddy Program provide a wonderful opportunity for young people to practice what they are learning.

The Buddy Program was created in 1989 in order to provide mentors for the young people living at The Children’s Home.  Over the years, it has expanded to also provide mentors for the young women who are residents of our Group Homes.  The Buddy Program is similar to other national mentoring programs: a Volunteer is matched with a young person and becomes a supportive role model and friend as they work through their treatment.  Volunteers in The Buddy Program enrich a young person’s life by sharing quality time and life experiences.  There is also opportunity for Volunteers to take their “Buddy” off grounds depending on the Volunteer’s comfort level and young person’s progress in their program.

Volunteers go through a screening process which is required by the State of Connecticut.  They are then matched with a young person and commit to visiting with them one hour per week for the duration of the young person’s stay at The Home.  Currently, residents stay with us for an average of 13 months.  Some Volunteers choose to visit more often or for longer periods over time, however, this is the minimum commitment we require. 

Volunteers in The Buddy Program make a hugely positive difference in a young person’s life.  Please contact , Volunteer Coordinator for The Children’s Home by phone (860) 635-6010 ext. 363 for more details about how to get involved!