Rise n’ Shine’s Mentoring Program is a community-based, one-on-one Big Buddy/Little Buddy program serving children infected with, and affected by HIV/AIDS. The Buddy relationship provides healthy, compassionate, and consistent interaction with a caring adult. Through the support of committed volunteer buddies, children improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, goal setting, and socialization skills. They are also supported when experiencing a loss. Over and over again, mentoring consistently demonstrates that one person can make a difference in the life of a child affected by HIV/AIDS.
Big Buddies
Big Buddies are community volunteers who commit to spending time with a Little Buddy every week for at least a year. To be eligible to become a Big Buddy, volunteers complete an application, screening process, and comprehensive two-day training. Once matched, the Big Buddy spends time with their Little Buddy “just hanging out” or helping with homework, going to movies, watching sports games, baking cookies, or exploring new and different things to do. Individuals ages 21 or older are eligible as long as they meet certain criteria.
The Little Buddy
Little Buddies want friendship and fun. They need help expressing their feelings and achieving their goals. They want to go to the movies, tell jokes, play basketball, draw pictures, and sometime just hold your hand. Children infected with, and affected by, HIV/AIDS want to experience the same childhood as other children. Little Buddies are always excited when a Big Buddy helps them get there. Little Buddies are available for matching between the ages of 5 and 15. Matches are based on mutual interests and preferences.
