Matching Guidelines for Youth
In addition to the guidelines put forth in the “Referral Procedures and Responsibilities for Professional Mental Health Staff”, we feel the following guidelines should be followed for youth matches:
- Therapists should plan to work closely with the volunteer throughout the match.
- Positive reinforcement is an excellent strategy for sustaining volunteers through difficult times.
- A meeting between the volunteer, the therapist, and the parents should take place before the volunteer meets the youth. Expectations should be shared to make sure they are realistic and appropriate.
- Parents should be encouraged to share any concerns with the therapist, Compeer Program, or the volunteer, depending upon the situation. Open communication between the volunteer and the parent(s) is advised.
- Children should be questioned periodically regarding the type of activities engaged in with the volunteer. Concerns about inappropriate activities should be reported immediately to the Compeer office. The Compeer program should be notified of any changes involving the child.
- If there are any questions concerning procedures or specific issues, please contact tquerns.mhacc@verizon.net
Operation Dignity will resume in the spring! Please call (716)372-0208 for more information on how you can help.
Attention Teens! No One Way teen support group will be meeting every Friday from 3pm-6pm. Please call (716) 372-0208 to learn more.
GED Classes Mondays and Wednesdays 9am - 12pm. All are welcome.
Get Inspired! with quotes from our Inspiration Walk.
