Cross Jr. Will Start in October

"We are looking for volunteers who love kids, are willing to be flexible, and are up for the challenge of spending time with fourth- and fifth-graders," said Julia Bills, mentoring and education manager with CrossNet Ministries and the organizer of Cross Jr., a faith-based, after-school program in the ELANCO School District. "(Volunteers) don't have to participate in running games," she added. "That's not a requirement."

Cross Jr. will be held at all three ELANCO elementary schools this fall. The Blue Ball Elementary program will begin on Tuesday, Oct. 21, and meet weekly from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Programs at Brecknock and New Holland elementary schools will meet from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays starting Oct. 22. In addition, there will be a Thursday program at New Holland Elementary from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. beginning on Oct. 30. According to Bills, each Cross Jr. group has about 10 children, and each child needs a mentor. About 20 mentors are needed to complete the fall roster.

Children who take part in the program may be referred by school faculty, parents, or friends. The one-on-one mentoring curriculum was devised especially for Cross Jr. "We created a book in house at CrossNet," explained Bills, who noted the journal for the program is a very specific, growth mindset activity. "The topics we go through involve subjects like knowing they are loved and valuable and can do hard things," said Bills, who listed subject such as "I am unique" and "I can forgive" among the discussion topics. "Topics involve who they are as individuals and their own worth and value," she stated. "We also talk about our inner strength, how to keep going after mistakes, and working through conflict." Groups enjoy games, which may involve running, and a snack at each meeting. "We have a group time where we talk about the topic, and there will be an object lesson to kind of propel them into their journal time, which is one-on-one time," said Bills.

Mentor Dave Fulmer said that he has appreciated the opportunity to be part of the program. "I enjoy being a Cross Jr. mentor because I consider it a high privilege to represent Jesus in this setting as a positive, caring influence in a young person's life," he noted. "I cherish the relationships I've been blessed to build with several students over the last three years."

Volunteer Lori Noyes said that she feels she is making a difference by volunteering. "I enjoy being a Cross Jr. Mentor because it's a great way to connect with students and help make a positive impact in their lives," she stated.

John Leval noted that he hopes he is bringing light into the lives of the students. "I am showing the love of Christ to a hurting and needy world," he said.

Mentors must be a least 21 years of age. "The important part is the one-on-one time," Bills said emphasizing that the program is faith-based, but not a Bible study. "Topics will discuss God and how He loves them, but (volunteers) needn't know everything about the Bible," she pointed out. "Anyone looking to build one-on-one relationships as a safe adult (could volunteer)." A training session will be held for volunteers on Tuesday, Oct. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the CrossNet Youth Center at 110 W. Franklin St., New Holland.

Individuals wishing to volunteer may email grant@elancocross.org or call 717-355-2454.