Standing Tall in Warrnambool Inc.

Standing Tall in Warrnambool Inc. is a community-driven mentoring program dedicated to supporting young people facing challenges in their school and personal lives. Recognising the importance of positive, supportive relationships outside the family, the program recruits and trains local volunteers to mentor students in schools, providing consistent one-on-one support during school hours. Mentors meet with their mentees for about one hour each week over a period of twelve months to two years, offering a flexible commitment that fits around school terms.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s vision is to create an environment where every young person feels a strong sense of belonging. Its mission focuses on training and supporting community members to become effective mentors, partnering with schools and the wider community to provide resources, and ensuring the safety of children in line with Victorian Child Safe Standards. The program values integrity, trust, respect, and shared responsibility, emphasising the development of trusting relationships as the foundation for positive change.

Main Objectives

• To provide at-risk junior school students with consistent, caring adult mentors.
• To improve students’ life skills, self-esteem, and personal development.
• To foster positive behavioural changes and enhance students’ outlook on school and their future.
• To build strong partnerships with local schools and community organisations.
• To maintain a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

Benefiting Groups

• Young people at risk of disengaging from school or struggling with personal issues.
• Schools that seek additional support for their students’ wellbeing and development.
• Community members who wish to contribute positively by becoming mentors or sponsors.

Services and Activities

• Weekly one-on-one mentoring sessions during school hours, tailored to the mentee’s interests and needs.
• Group sessions addressing relevant issues for young people.
• Mentor training and ongoing support to ensure effective and safe mentoring relationships.
• Community engagement through sponsorships, donations, and volunteer recruitment.