Volunteers invited for youth mentoring programme

Foróige, an organisation working for the development and well being of Ireland's youth, is inviting local volunteers to step into the role of mentors for Offaly's youngsters. Young people between the ages of eight and 18 are matched with a suitable adult mentor from the community based on shared interests and personality.

Katie Nichol, a programme officer with Foróige Mentoring, said the need for volunteers in Offaly is growing. “We are seeing more young people being referred locally, and there aren’t enough mentors to meet that need at the moment. There are young people ready to be matched, and we’re looking for people in the community who can give a small amount of time each week.”

Young people are referred through schools, families, youth services, and other local supports, often at a point when having someone steady in their life can really matter. They may be navigating challenges at home or in school, coping with loss, or simply in need of some additional support and a consistent, caring adult in their lives.The core idea of this mentorship is to show up with consistency and meaningful commitment. It might be an hour after school. A walk, a chat, sharing a skill, or just grabbing a hot chocolate or an ice cream. Volunteers are provided with with full training and ongoing support by a dedicated Foróige Programme Officer.

Anyone interested in becoming a mentor in Offaly can contact Katie Nichol at katie.nichol@foroige.ie or visit foroige.ie/our-work/mentoring/.