Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Perth District Health Unit
Male and Female Volunteers over the Age of 18 Needed for Teen Esteem and Elements Programs This Fall

Being a teenager isn’t easy. However, the successful Teen Esteem and Elements programs for Grade 7 and 8 kids are helping to make it a little easier. Men and women who want to help shape the future of our young teens are needed to volunteer for these unique, school-based programs.

The Teen Esteem program for girls is celebrating its seventh anniversary in Perth County. Teen girls get the opportunity to learn from adult women who share experiences about their own careers and life choices. Topics include self-worth, setting goals for the future, and positive self-image.

In 2006, the Elements program was launched to give teen boys the same opportunity. Male volunteers from the community discuss issues such as anger management, stereotypes, self-discovery, and healthy relationships with the boys during games and other fun activities.

“Those that have participated in previous sessions have really enjoyed the programs,” said Meagan Melling, Public Health Nurse. “Eighty per cent of volunteers who participated in the spring thought the Teen Esteem Program was ‘excellent’ and 100 per cent thought that their contributions were appreciated by the girls.”

Volunteers visit the school once a week for a one-hour workshop with the teens during lunchtime. Teen Esteem is a seven week program and Elements runs for five weeks. “We are looking for men and women over the age of 18 to invest in these young people,” says Melling. “These teens are eager to connect with adults who show an interest in their lives.”

This fall, Teen Esteem will be offered at Listowel Central Public School, South Perth Centennial Public School and Milverton Public School. Elements will be offered at Central Perth Elementary School and Jeanne Sauve Catholic School.

Men and women who are interested in volunteering for the Elements or Teen Esteem program are invited to contact Nancy Hallowell-Scott, Coordinator of Volunteer Services, by calling 519-271-7600 ext 305. Listowel area residents call 1-877-271-7348 ext 305. Or you may send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . The application deadline is Friday, August 13, 2010. Volunteer interviews will be held in late August, and an orientation session for new and returning volunteers will be held in September.