In Bend, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is reaching out to families, churches, and civic groups for volunteers to join its Central Oregon Partnerships for Youth (COPY) mentorship program. The initiative, which has served the community for more than two decades, pairs caring adults with children who have an incarcerated parent or guardian, providing the steady adult presence that many of these youngsters need.
How the program works
COPY follows a model similar to the well‑known Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. Volunteers are matched with a youth who shares similar interests, whether that be sports, music, or outdoor activities. Mentors typically spend three to four hours each week with their mentee, helping to create a reliable routine and a sense of normalcy during a challenging time in the child’s life.
Why volunteers are needed now
Bob Moore, the program coordinator, explained that the start of the school year is an especially important moment for children who have experienced frequent disruptions. “It’s also very destabilizing to have a lot of changes in kids’ lives,” Moore said. “The fall season brings a school routine, a regular teacher, and it’s a good time to begin a mentoring relationship that offers consistent adult support.”
Volunteer orientation
An orientation session for prospective mentors is scheduled for Saturday, September 26. The three‑hour session is free of charge and does not require any initial commitment, allowing interested community members to learn more about the program’s expectations and the screening process.
How to get involved
Those who wish to become mentors can request additional details by calling 541‑388‑6651 or emailing [email protected]. More information, including an online application, is also available on the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office website at www.sheriff.deschutes.org/copy.
Supporting families and the community
The COPY program reflects the county’s commitment to strengthening families and upholding the values of personal responsibility and community service. By offering a dependable adult influence, the program helps children stay focused on school, develop healthy habits, and avoid the pitfalls that can arise from a lack of stable guidance.
Local churches, faith‑based organizations, and civic clubs are encouraged to share the opportunity with their members. In a time when many families are navigating the challenges of incarceration, the collective effort of volunteers can make a lasting, positive impact on the next generation of Central Oregon residents.
Looking ahead
The Sheriff’s Office hopes that the upcoming orientation will attract a robust group of volunteers, ensuring that every child in need can be paired with a caring mentor. As the program continues to grow, the office remains committed to providing the resources and support necessary for mentors to succeed in this vital role.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
