ALBANY Creek youth liked the Vinnies “Buddies Day” program so much last year they’re still part of it.
“Buddies days are designed to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds, either financially or due to medical conditions,” parish youth co-ordinator Vien Toohey said.
“We started doing this as our youth outreach in 2009 and due to the success have carried on with it in 2010.”
With children “buddied up” with a “buddie leader” between 16 and 35 years, those involved head out as a group for five hours one Saturday a month.
“We do a range of activities from tenpin bowling, playing at the park to putt-putt and scavenger hunts.
“It’s about providing another support network for that child and having a role model that they can have fun with and trust.
“It also provides some parents with a much needed rest or just a chance to do the grocery shopping easier.”
Last year Albany Creek began with 10 leaders and seven children in need.
Their numbers have now grown to 15 leaders and 12 in the program.
Vien said the outreach relied on fundraising, donations and deanery youth funds, with a May trivia night raising $1300.
