Volunteer Opportunity Details:

Science Firsthand connects youth ( 9 - 14 yrs) with compassionate adults to explore the natural urban landscape in their neighborhoods, and do hands on science investigation. Science Firsthand mentors come from all backgrounds, ages and interests. Some have science experience, some have experience with youth, and some realize the need for an adult mentor for children. As they ask questions, discuss solutions and share discoveries, foundations for relationships and knowledge are built. Mentor/mentee teams have planted gardens, dismantled simple appliances and built others, flown kites and much more. Mentees have commented that "they thought never science could be fun, and that they never think of TV" when they are investigators. Mentors meet one - to - one or with a small team of mentors and students, during the after school hours at a community center that is a Science Firsthand host. There are currently 6 centers where mentors may volunteer. The program began in the 2005 - 2006 school year. Some students have been mentees from the start and many others hope to begin participating during summer 2007, or in the 2007-2008 school year. During the 2006 - 2007 school year, there were approximately 40 mentors and 70 mentees.

Mentors complete an on site orientation, which is a 2 hour session. This includes an introduction to the center staff and tour of the site, a Science Firsthand investigation planned by the Science Firsthand (SF) staff and volunteer, and preparation for the initial meetings with the student/students. SF offers ongoing training throughout the year. Volunteers who work one - to - one with a student will have a criminal background check. All volunteers will have an interview with the Science Firsthand staff.

This opportunity is sponsored by: First Hand Learning, Inc.

Volunteers will work with the following groups Adolescents (13-17) Low-income / Poverty Children (5-12) This volunteer opportunity is available to the following types of volunteers Adults (26-54) Unpaid Interns Adults (55+) Young Adults (18-25) Small Group (2-10) We need volunteers who are free at these times Weekdays Weekly This volunteer opportunity addresses the following social interests Children & Youth Environmental Education & Technology Mentoring Services We are looking for volunteers with the following skills Animal Services Landscaping Construction / Maintenance Math / Science First Aid / CPR Teaching Health Care Tutoring

Contact Person: Bill Rogers, Project Coordinator, (phone), (email) View all agency contacts

Address:

2495 Main St., #559 Buffalo, NY 14214 (See a map)

Directions:

Firsthand Learning is located on the fifth floor of the TriMain Center, on Main Street between Jewett Ave. and Rodney St. If you are coming from the 198 Expressway, you would go east on Main St.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Amherst Station,   Walk distance (in minutes): 5 min.   Nearest Bus Stop: Main St. & Jewett Ave., 5 min. minute walk

Details where opportunity can also be performed

This opportunity can also be performed in these locations:

Cities:		Buffalo
Counties:		Erie
Zip codes:		14207,   14208,   14214,   14215