Reach Our Youth (ROY) is a one-to-one mentoring program throughout Huron County, Ohio that matches volunteers with troubled youth who are in need of a good role model and extra friend. Volunteers are matched with children (ages 6-18) in a big brother/big sister type relationship. Some of these children may be from a single parent family and need the support of an additional friend. Others may be from a family where illness of the adult(s) limits the time parent(s) can spend with a child. ROY volunteers are dedicated, caring individuals who make a commitment to spend two or more hours per contact with 3-4 visits monthly with a child for a period of six months or longer. During their time together, the volunteer will talk and listen to the child, while engaging in activities that are of interest to the youth. If the volunteer is unable to meet with the youth one week, we ask they connect with them through the phone or mail. It is our hope that very beneficial relationships are developed for all persons involved in ROY!! The volunteer makes a commitment of time, not money, although he/she may occasionally 'treat' the child to something on a special occasion! Approximately 5 times per year, group activities are held for all ROY members. Activities have included roller-skating, bowling, picnics, canoeing, etc. Volunteers and youth are encouraged to attend these events. ROY also sponsors a Courthouse Christmas Giving Tree, and distributes any donations in-kind to needy families in the program. Both the volunteer and mentee are required to submit a monthly contact form to the program, helping keep the staff informed of the status of the match-up and any hours volunteered. Youth are often referred to the ROY office by parents, schools, Huron County Juvenile Court, Huron County Dept. of Job and Family Services, counseling agencies, or any other concerned party.