Goal: Be a positive in young lives

The Herald is featuring 12 charities which have been chosen to get a $10,000 grant from Auckland Airport, as part of its 12 Days of Christmas charity campaign. The $120,000 comes from generous travellers who donate money in globes throughout the airport

Being a friend is wonderful. But being a positive role model can have an even greater impact on another person’s life — especially if it’s a young person.

Brothers In Arms is a charity that is all about providing youngsters with a person who can be a positive influence in their lives.

The charity was established in 2006 to help at-risk or vulnerable young people by linking them up with positive adult role models.

A group of mates got together and decided to volunteer —and the first mentors were born.

The charity is one of 12 to receive $10,000 each in the Auckland Airport 12 Days of Christmas campaign.

Brothers In Arms co-founder Dave Robertson said they had about 100 young people linked up with a volunteer mentor.

The grant will go towards funding next year’s events, including a beach day and adventure camp for the kids.

Despite its name, the group provides both female and male mentors to girls and boys aged 9 to 13.

“They do all sorts of activities and they meet once a week. A number of them have been mentors for around three years.

“Most of the kids have been identified as someone who would really benefit from having an adult role model.”