Peer Mentors

Description

Special Gifts Theatre has a very unique component to its theatre program called the "Peer Mentor Program." This mentoring program consists of Peer Mentors, who are able children that can range in age from eight years through late teens. These Peer Mentors are then matched one-on-one with students in the program. The mentors volunteer their time to attend all classes and rehearsals with their "theatre buddy" and are onstage with them during each performance.

This program has proven to extend beyond the boundaries of Special Gifts Theatre, as friendships, understanding and respect grow on a daily basis. When possible, we try to have mentors and theatre buddies in the same school district so relationships can continue to grow outside of SGT. This becomes an important part of our mission as we "break down stereotypes related to disabilities within the community at large." This program offers as many growth experiences for the nondisabled as it does for the children with special needs. Experiencing diversity early in life helps children learn to accept and appreciate others for their inner creative being. If you are interested in being a Peer Mentor, please contact us.

Details

Peer Mentors come to the program one day a week and spend about one hour and 30 minutes per week volunteering their time in the classroom with their theatre buddy. The program starts just after the Labor Day holiday and runs through mid-March. Classes meet on Monday’s at Hickory Point, Northbrook, IL, or Tuesday’s or Thursday’s at the Skokie School, Winnetka, IL.

Peer mentors work with their "theatre buddy" in the classroom and on stage. Activities shared together include exercises, games, learning lines, acting techniques, dancing and singing. Each session ends with a full on-stage production that is scheduled in March. As the season comes to an end, peer mentors are expected to be at the dress rehearsals and performances to assist and be with their theatre buddy on stage.

The magic that happens during this program is truly stunning! The peer mentors along with the students, expand disability awareness, foster friendships, and honor the creative spirit in everyone as they work side-by-side learning new skills, breaking down barriers and preparing for the final production.

If you are interested in participating in this program please contact us. SGT maintains a list at all times of peer mentors who are interested in the program.

In the News

Click here to read news articles about the Peer Mentor Program.