And some were surprised at just how creative they could be.
The Tomorrow Today team took inspiration for the evening from local craftspeople at North East Artisans, preparing a range of craft activities for young people and their mentors to try.
Connect9 facilitator Karen Curl said it was fantastic to see how the mentees and mentors encouraged each other to have a go.
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“Not all of us are naturally arty and crafty and it was great to see each person’s individual take on the painting, scrapbooking and string-art tasks”, Ms Curl said.
Connect9 is a program unique to Benalla, run by Tomorrow Today, which connects Year 9 students with local volunteer mentors and to the local community.
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Tomorrow Today Chair Rosie Koop said the young mentees had the opportunity to learn new skills, try new sports or hobbies, investigate career options and build their local connections thanks to partnerships with many local community organisations.
“We know how important it is for young people to be connected to a trusted adult who genuinely cares and believes in them,” Ms Koop said.
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“Lots of young people feel flat right now due to disruptions to school and life caused by the pandemic.
“We know that young people thrive when they’re connected and find a place where they feel they belong.
“Connect9 is all about building those connections and introducing young people to activities and possibilities.”
For more information about Connect9, please contact Tomorrow Today on 5762 1211.
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