News

Minties, Mentees and Mentors

In the latter half of 2019, we had some schools reach out to us to enquire about our Mentoring ministry, and our Chic and Blokes programs, on top of the already running SUPA Clubs. In 2020 we had some mentoring programs start up, and we were also training facilitators for Chic and Blokes when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Term two saw all of our school programs put on hold due to restrictions around visitors in schools. Although we were disheartened that our teams were not able to connect with the students, we were encouraged to know that schools really value our volunteers and the relationships they are building with the students.

The following email was received from Mentoring Team Leader Jeannie, Carey Baptist College, Forrestdale: ‘I have received a plea from Carey Baptist College Forrestdale concerning recommencing mentoring. All mentees have returned to school, and they have been asking after their mentors. The Principal is eager for the Mentoring Team to return as part of the wider College Team as soon as possible.’

Knowing that students will be in extra need of nurturing after the uncertainties of the past few months, more schools have been enquiring with us about what SU can offer their students once restrictions are lifted. We have since been able to develop an online SUPA club as well as a new in-school weekly club program which will incorporate elements of our camping ministry. We are excited to see how the students will respond to this new program and how God will be at work in their lives. Thank you for your continued support through prayer, encouraging words and financial giving. Because of you, we are able to continue being there for young people and saying yes to new ministry opportunities.

by Mel Hallsworth