Prince George, B.C. – Kids in Prince George are benefiting from a new mentorship program in the city.

Just launched by Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George (BBBSPG), it matches grandparents with local youth.

“It all stemmed from a question that an individual posted on (Facebook page) Hell Yeah Prince George,” says executive director Tim Bennett. “It was posted by Taya Sklapsky and is very similar to the work we do as an agency so it was really just a perfect fit.”

He says it’s an another way to provide positive role models in the community.

“There are numerous studies that show proactively providing mentorship in a child’s life reduces negative behaviours such as bullying, drug and alcohol experimentation, lying, and cheating,” says Bennett.

“But more importantly will provide positive things such as higher graduation rates, more youth enrolling in post-secondary activities and less likely to rely on mechanism such as social assistance when they get into their adulthood.”

Those interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to call BBBSPG at 250-563-7410.

You can also access their website by clicking here.