SMASH - Swindon Mentoring and Self Help Project - matches volunteer mentors with young people, aged between 13 and 18, who wa ... nt to change their lives. Through no fault of their own these young people are not getting enough attention, encouragement and advice to help them develop their talents and skills. The SMASH Youth Project matches volunteers from the community with young people who have decided to change their lives. Through a year-long mentoring programme, the young people set themselves personal goals and the mentors give them the tools to help achieve them. Ways in which you can help and support SMASH: Apply to be a mentor: Do something amazing - be a mentor - you’ll be given excellent training and support during the year’s mentoring. We try and match you carefully with a young person who has similar interests. You commit to meeting a few hours a week for a year. Most mentors find the year hugely satisfying and learn a lot themselves as well as helping a young person to change their life. Fundraise: Raise Cash for SMASH - we need to raise significant funds from the local community and businesses each year to match our Lotto funding. Whether you fancy baking some cakes or running a marathon, we will be delighted to work with you to help the event go well. Donate Time: Donate time each week – develop new skills or practice existing ones. We may be able to use your skills whether they are in marketing, IT, fundraising, event management or finance. SMASH is currently run by 4 part-time staff and regular, reliable, skilled voluntary help is invaluable. If you have something to offer and would like to discuss this please contact us. Provide an inspirational visit to your workplace: We’re looking for businesses to invite our young people to tour your factory or office and meet some of your staff. You could be the one who inspires a young person to form new ambitions and goals. http://www.smashyouthproject.co.uk read more