Page 16 - CCLLEN Annual Report

MATES Mentoring Program

Both mentors and mentees reported positively on the support they received and the quality of the
program.

All of the mentors said they feel they have made Mentees said “My mentor has made a
a difference in their mentee’s life, with comments difference because” -
including - • Made my life better
• She turns up to school when I am there • Helped me build more confidence

• Strong relationship developed over time • I don’t get into trouble as much
• I think her confidence levels may have • I just feel I can talk more
improved • She (mentor) has made school more
• Has helped with his social skills enjoyable
• He seems to enjoy having someone to hang
with • We talk about a lot of things
• Conversations are more comfortable
• He seems more confident and more
talkative.
• He says he gets into less trouble

Mentees reported that they enjoyed the regular time with their mentor, to talk, share an activity
and have someone to talk to. Mentors enjoyed helping young people, building relationships and
sharing ideas and activities, understanding what a person is thinking, contributing to the community.
Parents and carers also value the program, commenting that it provided a male role model, as well

as supports and benefits to the student.

I CAN Mentoring Program

Evaluations of students who participated in both the primary and secondary school aged groups
showed improvements in their confidence. Primary school students said they felt more comfortable
at school and secondary students had more positive attitudes to their autism.
Families and teachers reported that after being involved in
the mentoring program they noticed an improvement in the
young people’s confidence, greater pride in their Autism and
a development of an ‘I CAN’ attitude. Student comments
highlight the sense of belonging developed, saying: I have
met my tribe. It’s like family. I feel like I can be myself.

14