The Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty reaches more than 3800 youth each week through their proven programmes Kiwi Can, Stars, Career Navigator and Project K – helping young people to build confidence, tackle life's challenges and build bright futures.

Mentoring is a vital part of their rangatahi programmes and this represents a rewarding experience for both the students and mentors.

Full training and support is given to all mentors.

Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu – National Volunteer Week is on from June 18-24, to honour the collective energies and mana of volunteers in New Zealand.

The theme this year is ‘he wā pīataata – time to shine' – and the week is a great way to get out there and volunteer your time to a plethora of great causes.

'Our mentors come from all walks of life, but the thing they have in common is passion to make a real difference in the challenging world our rangatahi face,” says Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty regional manager Dan Allen-Gordon.

'Every one of us that overcame major obstacles as a young person has had a significant adult help them succeed.”

Mentors meet up with their rangatahi fortnightly and group activities are also arranged periodically throughout the year for students and their mentors – from bowling and rock climbing to skydiving and mud runs!

Mentors also help young people work towards and achieve their goals.

'Seeing students grow and being beside them as they overcome challenges and accomplish their goals is just amazing – and it isn't difficult, it's just about being a friend, a listening ear and a sounding board,” says Helen Fraser, a four-time mentor for the foundation.

'The chance to help, to give opportunities and be a positive role model and inspire young people is amazing. I love it.”

To find out more about becoming a mentor, email: dan.allen-gordon@dinglefoundation.org.nz