COMPEER Volunteer

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The Compeer Program of Family Services of Chemung County, Inc. is seeking volunteer mentors that can provide a special friendship for as little as one hour a week. Our mission is "to use the power of friendship to help adults and youth with mental health illnesses and youth at-risk live happier, more productive lives through the support of caring community volunteers."

"Circle of Friends" is a school-based mentoring program that matches community volunteers with K-6 th grade students, within the Elmira City School District, in 1:1 mentoring relationships and small group friendships, during the student’s lunchtime (10:00am - 1:30pm). Volunteers meet with their "friend" for roughly one hour a week helping with reading, game playing, skill-building activities, peer-to-peer and adult socialization and interaction, and craft activities to share with the community. Most importantly, our Circle of Friends students and volunteers are spending quality time together is a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment, while building a trusting friendship.

"PAL" is a 1:1 mentoring program for students 4 th-12 th grade that reside in Chemung County. PAL occurs outside the regular school day and supports the mission "to build a child’s self-esteem, which promotes learning that enables social, emotional, cultural, and academic growth through supportive friendships." Volunteers and their "PAL" meet for a minimum of four hours a month for at least one year, engaging in community related activities, learning and building lifelong skills, and exploring cultural programs and events within the surrounding area. Our PALs are having fun while learning new skills, improving their socialization skills, reducing isolation, and building a lasting friendship. Male volunteers are in high demand for this program.

"Adult 1:1" is a 1:1 mentoring program for adults 18 years and older living in Chemung County, who have been identified with a mental health challenge and is seeking a trained volunteer to engage in a supportive friendship. Like PAL, volunteers meet with their "friend" for a minimum of four hours a month for at least one year, building a forever friendship by engaging in community related activities and events. Our "friends" are building their independence, developing personal growth, learning to set goals and celebrate their achievements, while improving their socialization skills and reducing isolation. Male volunteers are in high demand for this program.