<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:g-custom="http://base.google.com/cns/1.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" version="2.0">
  <channel>
    <title>bbbsnational2023</title>
    <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz</link>
    <description />
    <atom:link href="https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/feed/rss2" type="application/rss+xml" rel="self" />
    <image>
      <title />
      <url>https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/NZ-Police-crest.jpg</url>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Jenny and Sasha - Our Mentoring Story</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/jenny-and-sasha</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "I was inspired to become a Mentor because…"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Ferris-wheel-9c107acc.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Sashas-snapper.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           I've always enjoyed taking youth on outdoors adventures through things like scouting and doing school talks with work (DOC). But for two reasons I wanted to do something like BBBS: I always felt that I'd like to help youth who really needed a caring reliable adult in their life whereas most of the scouts already have that, and also with scouts I spend a little bit of time with a lot of youth, so I was keen to also develop a closer relationship with one particular youth. I'd wanted to do something like BBBS for a long time, but wasn't able to due to work taking me out into the backcountry lots. When I changed jobs to one with more predictable hours I saw a BBBS sign beside the road and it reminded me that I should look into it. I did and I'm really enjoying it, the team gives great support and run lots of awesome and varied group activities..
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           It helps if you can...
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           In my opinion it helps to be open-minded and not judge youth by their life circumstances and the behaviours they might therefore have that differ from what you're used to in your own circles. It helps to be prepared for a weekly commitment - a week comes around quickly if things like work get busy! It helps to keep your eye out for the subtle signs that they're enjoying activities with you, as they might not express happiness or enjoyment in ways that you're used to. It helps if you do what you say you're going to do, i.e. be reliable.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Things we like to do together...
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Building fortresses on the beach. Cooking hamburgers for dinner on a gas cooker in the outdoors. Swimming in rivers or the sea. Exploring new places and trying out new activities like kayaking, horse-riding and fishing. Playing silly games and challenges at playgrounds. Building a campfire and cooking sausages over it. Wood-working. Go-karting. Doing army commando course challenges. Going on the BBBS group activities such as fishing, games at Rabbit island, and jetboating.
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           All sorts!
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Memorable moments we have had together are...
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sasha catching her first fish, filleting it and frying it over a gas cooker beside the sea. Then rapidly progressing to catching huge kahawai and driving the boat back to the marina! Another time we took a boat out at twilight from the marina to the Haven where we got fish and chips, then ate the fish and chips out at sea as the sun set.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A heart-warming moment was..
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When Sasha was insistent that I come inside where she was living so that she could show me her treasures - a camo-coloured speaker and a fancy computer mouse. The very first time we went out together we went to Tahuna beach and promptly "saved" dozens of sand dollars from drying out because the tide was out. How excited she was about cooking and eating the first fish she ever caught. How she trusts me to be there for her when she tries new things that scare her a bit, like jumping into deep water, going fast on go-karts, riding my horse etc.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           My Mentoring tip is...
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           To be open-minded and non-judgemental, try different activities, listen to your mentee and the stories they tell you when they feel like talking, treat hanging out with your mentee as spending time with a good friend and enjoy and celebrate with them all the good moments both big and small.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mentoring is/isn’t for you if...
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           It is for you if you care about all youth and want to befriend them and help them have positive experiences with a friendly and reliable adult, no matter their background. I don't think it is for you if you expect all youth to behave a certain way, if you expect to have as much control as e.g. a parent, if you can't reliably be there for them every week, or if you aren't willing to examine your own behaviour and make improvements as you learn on the way!
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/Jetboating.jpg" length="221727" type="image/jpeg" />
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Aug 2021 04:35:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/jenny-and-sasha</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Jetboating.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/Jetboating.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>The Power Of One Hour of Your Time</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/the-power-of-one-hour-of-your-time</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Skate-ramp-2016.JPG" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Kayaking-with-Marcel-1fe07c26.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/IMG_3732-f48f5418.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "The Power Of One Hour of Your Time."
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Life has a way of making paths cross just when they are meant to, and this was one of those times. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Carey ‘s life was changed forever when his father passed away when he was 8 years old. This event caused many changes in Carey’s world, including how he behaved, how he interacted with males, and the other effects of losing a parent at such a significant age, causes. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           His mother identified that Carey was missing that male role model and support on a one to one basis, and was struggling with his emotions. This was one of the reasons his mother and his school applied for him to have a School Based Mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           At around this time Marcel decided he would like to become part of the BBBS team as a School Based Mentor and give his time for one hour every week to hang out with and support a young person. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           So in 2016, a match was made between Carey and Marcel at school and their journey started as Big and Little. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Over the next three years they slowly but steadily developed a great friendship and did many things each week with their hour together. This included board games, painting, kicking a ball, puzzles and they even built and painted a skate ramp and a bookshelf for Carey to have at his home. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Marcel and Carey built such a good connection, that in 2019, Marcel asked if Carey and his mother would support the match changing to a community based one, so they could expand activities and participate in events that BBBS organised. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           All agreed, and they have gone on to learn from each other and tried new things such as Carey learning to play tennis, kayaking for the first time and Marcel being taught by Carey how to skateboard so they can do this together. Carey also got to see his first Giants basketball game. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Marcel said that when he first met Carey he was reserved and apprehensive, but over the years he has become more confident, has gained more social skills, is more expressive about his feelings and he is keen to try new things that take him out of his comfort zone. He now sees a lot more smiles and laughter especially when they share jokes with each other. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Carey says spending time with Marcel is the highlight of his week, and he feels he is more able to manage his emotions, build better friendships at school and he is doing better with his schoolwork. Carey also says that he gets less angry since he began spending time with Marcel. He has learnt so many things from Marcel and they have a really good time. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Carey is always excited about his sessions with Marcel and is ready an hour before hand. Carey’s mother has seen a difference in her son, he comes home buzzing and telling her all about what they have done. Carey has thrived having Marcel in his life, sharing his time and knowledge. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           So many would say ‘What difference does one hour make’? 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The simple answer is - to a young person facing adversity, it is EVERYTHING.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/Kayaking-with-Marcel.jpg" length="2304133" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Aug 2021 00:57:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/the-power-of-one-hour-of-your-time</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Kayaking+with+Marcel.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/Kayaking-with-Marcel.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ollie and Aaron - All the reason you need to have fun!</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/ollie-and-aaron</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Ollie+and+Aaron.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Now he just tackles everything head on".
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Sun, 20 Jun 2021 01:47:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/ollie-and-aaron</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,videos,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Ollie+and+Aaron.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Jack Goodhue - BBBS Christchurch Ambassador</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/jack-goodhue</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Jack-and-his-mentee-Eligh.JPG" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Building blocks for a brighter future"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            How is it fair that some kiwi kids miss out, simply because of what life throws at them?
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            By changing the course of young lives we can change the course of our community's future. Big Brothers Big Sisters is passionate about our region's tamariki and believe every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When we match young people with adult mentors we start something special: a one-to-one relationship built on trust and friendship that can blossom and create building blocks for a brighter future. The difference you can make with one hour, once a week for one year can impact a lifetime. Mentoring is simply, coming alongside and being a wise and trusted friend. 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           And the best way to build a relationship is just by having fun together! It's about one young person having one more positive adult in their life.  We're looking for more everyday people to be mentors". 
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Jack Goodhue - BBBS of Christchurch Ambassador
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Sat, 19 Jun 2021 02:46:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/jack-goodhue</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,chch,videos,defenders of potential,patrons</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Jack-and-his-mentee-Eligh.JPG">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Our Story - Jordan and Tim</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-jordon-mentoring</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/178404411_4256498404382059_82064966642799917_n-e7a77d37.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Letting them tell their 10 year story!
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           We were going to tell you a story about one of our matches that is now moving into its tenth year, but I decided that I would do it a little differently. I have let them tell you in their words about the journey they have had as mentor and mentee, and the view from the parent.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mentors thoughts on match…
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “My Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) journey with Jordan began on the day of his seventh birthday, April 28th 2011.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           This lively young boy was only just up to my waist, had no front teeth and could barely reach the pedals on his first two wheeler bicycle. It is with great delight that I can say that nine years later we are still together and part of the BBBS programme. Nine years later he is now almost as tall as me, shaves daily and has asked me to teach him to drive a car!
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Nine years is a long time and it has been my privilege to see Jordan grow from a young seven year old boy into a mature sixteen year old young man. Our journey together has been about building a friendship and a relationship that has involved experiencing lots of exciting adventures together along with sharing the everyday ordinary events in our lives.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Jordan has grown so much and in so many different ways in the time we have had together. He has become a very active young man involved with many community activities who has a very positive outlook on life. The change from the young and shy, socially awkward and reticent seven year old to the now confident and focussed young man has been a delight to watch and a pleasure for me to realise I have effected positive change in his life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When I first joined BBBS about 15 years ago I thought about what I could contribute to my young person, what I could do for them and how I could help them grow as a person, but what I have learnt over this time is how much I have received back. This has been a real bonus for me.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mentoring for me with Jordan has been like the ‘pebble effect.’ When you drop a pebble in the middle of a pool of water many ripples spread. The time I have spent with Jordan has resulted in many positive ripples that have improved his life”.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-79fc04b2-70fe4d5d.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mentee’s thoughts…
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            “When BBBS brought Tim to my home to meet me for the first time, I was a shy, scared boy, and was not at all sure that I wanted to take a risk on a man I didn’t even know letting me down or not liking me. But Mum and my grandparents had reassured me this was a good idea, so it must be, and wow what a change it did make. That was just over nine years ago, and we are now best mates. He has supported me to become a more confident, curious, creative, reliable, motivated, educated individual. He has helped me to challenge myself and my doubts about what I can achieve in life.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           He supported me through some tough ages and stages where my behaviour was challenging at home, and my motivation at school waned. Tim gave me the avenue to consider how to manage myself differently. This helped me develop better coping skills, and have more respect for my family and my education. We have done many activities that I thought I would never have the opportunity to do, or didn’t even know about. I now do better in school, have more confidence, and I am better at managing my emotions.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           I have become involved with groups such as Scouts to a leadership level, taken on photography, become a leader of a youth group and want to make this something I could do as a career. Before mentoring, as a young 7 year old, I didn’t think much of anything. I am sure having Tim as my mentor is the one thing in my life that has made the difference for me. He is just one of the good guys, who gave his time to a little kid who just needed that little more male support. He has been that one person for me”.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/180009195_4256498491048717_5304207916789565063_n-fc17a5d5.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Parent’s thoughts…
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Having BBBS in our lives has been a life changer. When Jordan was 7, and my other son was 6, I was a full time single Mum, and their father was not a constant in his life. Jordan had male role models, but needed one who would bring regular joy, happiness, consistency, self-esteem and a person to do adventures with. BBBS matched us with Tim.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Right from an hour after the interview we were a team, and that was 9 years ago. For a couple of hours most weekends for 9 years, Tim has voluntarily given his time. The two have gone fishing, learned to cook, played ball, gone bike riding, sailing, kayaking, dog walks, and so much more.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Tim has watched Jordan grow up literally, and mentally. He has been here through the good and bad (the boy’s father died in 2015). Tim was a huge support to not only Jordan during this time.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           He has become just a part of our family really over the years as we see him every week when he picks up Jordan. The support he has given our family through tough times by being the listening ear, humour and genuine kindness has been amazing. The dedication he has shown to Jordan and my family is exactly the kind of mentor Jordan needed, and made me feel comfortable letting my son go off with him every week.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Being part of the BBBS family and having a Big Brother for my son has been, and is, a treat. I am very fortunate, thankful, blessed, and couldn’t have asked for a better mentor for my son than Tim. The importance of having an older “parent and friend” role model has supported Jordan to learn to trust, to teach, encourage and have fun. The fact that Tim has seen Jordan on a consistent basis is just what we needed in our family at the time for Jordan. They will always be great friends now and Tim will always have a place in our lives”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "As the Mentoring Coordinator for this match for the past five years, it has been amazing and a privilege to see them become a match who have nothing but respect and generosity towards each other and there will be a lifelong connection after they have moved passed the journey with BBBS".
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:51:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-jordon-mentoring</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/178404411_4256498404382059_82064966642799917_n.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Making a friend for life!</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-cross-nelson</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/photo-1563754536869-24d854e50ce6-a6799a2a.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Hugely rewarding!
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           For Nelson man Tim Cross, the best thing about becoming a “Big Brother” mentor has been making a friend for life. He and his “match” Jordan, 16, are now moving into their tenth year of friendship, thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson Tasman.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            “My journey with Jordan began on the day of his seventh birthday. This lively young boy was only just up to my waist, had no front teeth and could barely reach the pedals on his first two-wheeler bicycle,” says Tim. “Nine years later we are still together, and he is now almost as tall as me, shaves daily and has asked me to teach him to drive a car.”
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Tim says it has been a “hugely rewarding” time in his life and encourages others to give it a go. “Nine years is a long time and Jordan has grown so much in so many ways in the time we have had together. He has become a very active young man who is involved with many community activities and he has a very positive outlook on life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “The change from the young and shy, socially awkward and reticent seven-year-old to the now confident and focussed young man has been a delight to watch, and a pleasure for me to realise I have had a positive change in his life.” 
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:24:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-cross-nelson</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/photo-1563754536869-24d854e50ce6-a6799a2a.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ayshja gets her spark back!</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/ayshja-gets-her-spark-back</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-45b4f8fb.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ayshja and Elisabeth
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ayshja came onto the programme two years ago at age 9. She was shy, low in confidence and struggled with
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           anxiety at school due to bullying.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Limited finances and family situations meant she’d had
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           limited opportunities for new experiences or involvement in after school activities. Ayshja met her mentor Elisabeth and they hit it off right away. Elisabeth has given Ayshja a wealth of new experiences from outdoor adventures, to sewing her own swimsuit, building projects and attending
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           community events.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-3304b8ea.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Elisabeth has gently encouraged Ayshja to try new things and found a spark in her while at the swimming pool. Ayshja loves swimming more than anything else. Through our life skills fund, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nelson-Tasman was able to fund Ayshja to attend swimming lessons for a term. She loved the routine, discipline,
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           challenge and successes during this term. Ayshja was desperate to continue so we approached the Sports Nelson Tasman Trust who kindly funded her lessons for the remainder of the year.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The support of her mentor Elisabeth and the opportunities gained from swimming have helped Ayshja to build her confidence and selfesteem.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Ayshja worked hard and was moved into the Bronze Squad. She nearly pulled out at the end of last year due to not being able to tumble-turn. However, they worked together and Elisabeth joined Ayshja in the pool.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           She was ecstatic when she finally mastered it and this success was a fantastic end to the year.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ayshja has since decided that she would like to find a way to fund her own lessons through fundraising. Elisabeth supports this venture and sees it as a fantastic opportunity for Ayshja to
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           learn that through hard work she can achieve anything she wants in life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ayshja is no longer bullied at school. Through building her confidence and sharing her skills,
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Elisabeth has taught her to stand up for herself and not allow others to treat her unkindly. Ayshja
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           is able to talk to lots of different people now and has made new friends. Recently, she made friends with a girl at school that she recognised was being bullied and excluded. Ayshja continues to grow into a confident young woman supported by her fantastic mentor Elisabeth. Ayshja’s Mum is extremely grateful and feels that Elisabeth has put the spark back in her little girl’s eyes.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:19:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/ayshja-gets-her-spark-back</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-3304b8ea.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Graduation Day Reflections</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/graduation-day-reflections</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-9d60f244.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ashlee and Tanya
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ashlee started her journey with Big Brothers Big Sisters
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            in 2010 when she was nine years old. She was a bright freckle-faced wee lass, who lived with her mother and older teenage sister. Her mother was struggling to manage her sister who was starting to challenge the boundaries.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Both girls were starting to spend more time hanging out in the community at parks and outside the stores. Her sister was starting to experiment with alcohol and smoking with her peers while Ashlee was present.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ashlee was matched with Big Sister Tanya, who was a strong, intelligent and caring lady. Tanya had not had children of her own but wanted to share her time to support a young person on their journey through life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-5a198fdc.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ashlee and Tanya built a special connection over the following eight years and did many activities that supported Ashlee in building confidence and life skills. Ashlee looked forward to seeing Tanya every week. Ashlee had a strong and caring supporter in Tanya, which was invaluable as life threw her a curve ball with her mother passing away after a long term illness. Her mothers illness impacted Ashlee every day and at times she would become the carer, managing the daily functioning of the home.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           During this time Ashlee was not interested in school and she started to become more absent. Through all this Ashlee knew that she had Tanya there for support, caring words and guidance.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ashlee turned 18 recently, graduating out of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nelson-Tasman programme. She is now a beautiful and positive young woman with a clear idea of what she wants to do with her future. Through the support of Tanya and the BBBS life skills fund, Ashlee obtained her restricted licence, which gives her the means to attend work and have independence. Ashlee now has a position working in shearing gangs and she loves this role. Ashlee’s parting comments were, ‘I just love Tanya and the time we spent together, she was always there for me. We will always be friends now.’ The support she has received from her mentor gave her one place in her life, where she did not have to think or talk about what was going on at home. She could just have some fun.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           It has been humbling to see the resilience in this incredible young lady, who has overcome challenges and is working towards the goals she has set for herself. One day in the future, Ashlee also would like to consider becoming a Big Sister herself.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:04:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/graduation-day-reflections</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Untitled-5a198fdc.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Everyday Superheroes</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/everyday-superheroes</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/56904905_2361710687194183_2332242755842998272_n-77ccd832.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Everyday Superheroes"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "The true measure of a mans strength is how safe he makes others feel". 
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sean Thomas - BBBS Founding Mentor and Lifetime Member
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:42:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/everyday-superheroes</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,videos,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/56904905_2361710687194183_2332242755842998272_n-77ccd832.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Riccarton Primary School</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/riccarton-primary-school</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/phgbBKuP0q1NXWEw90OtFiGjNr8BDAIeUj55XZqM5pc1M1QsDyDCXrm950mmsZ9Ck7FXrWYNb5bqaax4ZHu082Nir8hR1ltVuhBes9H1JXL7Fq1sUM4KTTF5lPChNcID-bbbd893e.jpeg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            "An obvious
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           positive difference made"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "At school, we can clearly see the positive relationship that develops between the Big Brother/Big Sister and their matched learner. The learners regularly talk about their Big Brother/Big Sister and the activities that they do together. Many of our mentors have
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           been matched with learners for several years, and are there to be both a positive role model, mentor and support to them, sometimes in challenging times.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           There is an obvious positive difference made in the lives of our learners through participating in the Big Brothers Big Sisters programme, and we are very appreciative of the fact that we are able to be involved in this programme."
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Paul Irving - Riccarton Primary School
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:51:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/riccarton-primary-school</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">chch,school,community_partners,defenders of potential</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/phgbBKuP0q1NXWEw90OtFiGjNr8BDAIeUj55XZqM5pc1M1QsDyDCXrm950mmsZ9Ck7FXrWYNb5bqaax4ZHu082Nir8hR1ltVuhBes9H1JXL7Fq1sUM4KTTF5lPChNcID-bbbd893e.jpeg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Sandra Hazlehurst - Hastings District Mayor</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/sandra-hazlehurst-hastings-district-mayor</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/V4IWFOJJ4IFP3XTNO5ZS3UNAUU-30adf3e4.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Providing support and guidance"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "I am impressed that a series of independent studies have found that children with a Big Brother or Big Sister mentor are more likely to succeed, to behave non-violently, and to avoid risky behaviours. These are outcomes that I would like to see all young people in Hastings achieve.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           My Council is focussed on providing the young people of Hastings opportunities to thrive. Excellent services such as Big Brothers Big Sisters enable this to be achieved by providing them with the support and guidance that they need."
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sandra Hazlehurst - Hastings District Mayor
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:45:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/sandra-hazlehurst-hastings-district-mayor</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">community_partners,defenders of potential,hawkesbay</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/V4IWFOJJ4IFP3XTNO5ZS3UNAUU.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Kirstyn Barnett - Waimakariri District Councillor</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/kirstyn-barnett</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/60348263_2519967901349782_3728987445014822912_n-4ea85ddf.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Bringing wider benefit to the whole community"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "I have known BBBS for many years and see first-hand the positive changes that it makes in young peoples' lives. Many of the mentors become friends for life and the benefits to both mentor and mentee often extend to the wider family network.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           By tackling their need for support at an early stage, BBBS brings wider benefits to the whole community by developing productive, confident youth who can on on to make great contributions, including mentoring others.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           BBBS has a strong governance model with a responsible Board of Directors. Their staff do a great job representing the organisation and managing the participants."
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Kirstyn Barnett - Waimakariri District Councillor
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:38:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/kirstyn-barnett</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">northcanterbury,community_partners,defenders of potential</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/60348263_2519967901349782_3728987445014822912_n-4ea85ddf.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Hokitika Primary School</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/hokitika-primary-school</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Copy+of+Sandra+K.png" alt="School principal outside"/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Students gaining confidence"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           I can't thank Big Brothers Big Sisters enough for the incredible 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           mahi
          &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            they do within our kura. Through Lisa's careful matching, our 
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           tamariki
          &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
            gain a caring mentor who offers a listening ear, boosts their confidence, and provides enriching experiences. It's truly heartwarming to see our children look up to these amazing individuals and receive the support they need to flourish.
           &#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Sand
          &#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           ra
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    
          Keenan - Hokitika School Pri
          &#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           n
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    
          cipal
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:25:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/hokitika-primary-school</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">school,westland,community_partners,defenders of potential</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/EmbeddedImage-cdaf4752.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Business with Community at Heart</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/business-with-community-at-heart</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/1a1053_8d212308d24f48679abd62b5de50c40c_mv2.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Proud to be associated"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Proformac Technologies has been a supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Taranaki since the programme began in 2007. We were initially attracted by what seemed a great cause in our community and have seen the growth since and the partnership we have developed. We are proud to be associated with Big Brothers Big Sisters and what is an incredible organisation offering much needed services in our community”.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Suman and Seema Modgill - Owners &amp;amp; Directors
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:04:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/business-with-community-at-heart</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">community partners,taranaki,defenders of potential,businesses,supporters</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/Proformac+Technologies.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New Zealand Police</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/nz-police</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/NZ-Police-crest-f8c8b163.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Strengthening and supporting to make positive changes"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “The New Zealand Police and Big Brothers Big Sisters have been in partnership for over 25 years and as the National Coordinator for Youth Partnerships, I see them as one of the cornerstone organisations that we work with in strengthening youth. Both Police and BBBSNZ share similar visions, values and desires to ensure that young people who need it are given access to mentors who work to strengthen and support the child and their family to make positive changes".
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Senior Sergeant Matiu Grant -Police National HQ
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 02:55:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/nz-police</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">national,community_partners,defenders of potential,supporters</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/NZ-Police-crest.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Shirley Primary School</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/shirley-primary-school</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/jo-Shirley-Primary-School.jpeg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "The hope and attention is invaluable"
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "Without Big Brothers Big Sisters, many of our vulnerable students' wellbeing would suffer. The relationship, the time, the opportunities, the hope and the attention that the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors give our students on a weekly basis is invaluable."
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Jo Meyrick | Deputy Principal - Shirley Primary School
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2021 21:31:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/shirley-primary-school</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">chch,school,community_partners,defenders of potential</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/featured_Shirley.gif">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tim's reflections as a Mentor</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-s-reflections-as-a-mentor</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/178404411_4256498404382059_82064966642799917_n-e7a77d37.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "What I have learnt over this time is how much I have received back".
           &#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            “My Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) journey with Jordan began on the day of his seventh birthday, April 28th 2011.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           This lively young boy was only just up to my waist, had no front teeth and could barely reach the pedals on his first two wheeler bicycle. It is with great delight that I can say that nine years later we are still together and part of the BBBS programme. Nine years later he is now almost as tall as me, shaves daily and has asked me to teach him to drive a car!
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Nine years is a long time and it has been my privilege to see Jordan grow from a young seven year old boy into a mature sixteen year old young man. Our journey together has been about building a friendship and a relationship that has involved experiencing lots of exciting adventures together along with sharing the everyday ordinary events in our lives.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Jordan has grown so much and in so many different ways in the time we have had together. He has become a very active young man involved with many community activities who has a very positive outlook on life. The change from the young and shy, socially awkward and reticent seven year old to the now confident and focussed young man has been a delight to watch and a pleasure for me to realise I have effected positive change in his life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When I first joined BBBS about 15 years ago I thought about what I could contribute to my young person, what I could do for them and how I could help them grow as a person, but what I have learnt over this time is how much I have received back. This has been a real bonus for me.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mentoring for me with Jordan has been like the ‘pebble effect.’ When you drop a pebble in the middle of a pool of water many ripples spread. The time I have spent with Jordan has resulted in many positive ripples that have improved his life”.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:55:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/tim-s-reflections-as-a-mentor</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/180009195_4256498491048717_5304207916789565063_n-90d1e90f.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Words from a grateful mum</title>
      <link>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/words-from-a-grateful-mum</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/180009195_4256498491048717_5304207916789565063_n-fc17a5d5.jpg" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Parent’s thoughts…
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Having BBBS in our lives has been a life changer. When Jordan was 7, and my other son was 6, I was a full time single Mum, and their father was not a constant in his life. Jordan had male role models, but needed one who would bring regular joy, happiness, consistency, self-esteem and a person to do adventures with. BBBS matched us with Tim.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Right from an hour after the interview we were a team, and that was 9 years ago. For a couple of hours most weekends for 9 years, Tim has voluntarily given his time. The two have gone fishing, learned to cook, played ball, gone bike riding, sailing, kayaking, dog walks, and so much more.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Tim has watched Jordan grow up literally, and mentally. He has been here through the good and bad (the boy’s father died in 2015). Tim was a huge support to not only Jordan during this time.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           He has become just a part of our family really over the years as we see him every week when he picks up Jordan. The support he has given our family through tough times by being the listening ear, humour and genuine kindness has been amazing. The dedication he has shown to Jordan and my family is exactly the kind of mentor Jordan needed, and made me feel comfortable letting my son go off with him every week.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            ﻿
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Being part of the BBBS family and having a Big Brother for my son has been, and is, a treat. I am very fortunate, thankful, blessed, and couldn’t have asked for a better mentor for my son than Tim. The importance of having an older “parent and friend” role model has supported Jordan to learn to trust, to teach, encourage and have fun. The fact that Tim has seen Jordan on a consistent basis is just what we needed in our family at the time for Jordan. They will always be great friends now and Tim will always have a place in our lives”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h1&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           "As the Mentoring Coordinator for this match for the past five years, it has been amazing and a privilege to see them become a match who have nothing but respect and generosity towards each other and there will be a lifelong connection after they have moved passed the journey with BBBS".
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h1&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Interested in promoting the impact of Mentoring in your community?
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg" length="2180978" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Sun, 13 Jun 2021 11:58:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>alex@bigboywebsites.co.nz (Alex Mann)</author>
      <guid>https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz/words-from-a-grateful-mum</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">mentoring_stories,nelson</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/1219328a/dms3rep/multi/180009195_4256498491048717_5304207916789565063_n-fc17a5d5.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/65a82fa6/dms3rep/multi/photo-1528559811539-b7ba8ccccda2-fc425de1.jpg">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
  </channel>
</rss>
