Submitted Photo Brendan Dick, member at large for Companions For Children, is shown with his mentee.

Companions for Children is expanding its reach in Minot-area schools with two growing mentorship programs — Lunch Pals and Pen Pals — and is calling on local residents to step up as volunteers to help meet rising student needs.

The programs are designed to give elementary students the kind of support that only consistent, caring adult relationships can provide. With new and returning students referred every semester, the organization is seeking additional mentors to keep up with growing demand.

Lunch Pals, originally launched in 2017, matches adult volunteers with students at Sunnyside, Washington, Bel Air, Longfellow and John Hoeven elementary schools. Pairs meet twice a month over lunch in a quiet room, such as a library or empty classroom. The goal is to help students build confidence, improve communication skills and gain a sense of stability through regular mentorship.

A newer expansion of that program, Lunch Pals+, serves students with disabilities at Lewis & Clark Elementary. These matches also meet twice a month for lunch, and mentors often bring their own lived experiences with disability to the table. The program uses guided conversation prompts to support communication and inclusion.

Meanwhile, Pen Pals, launched in 2020, offers a flexible, remote mentorship option in which students and adults exchange handwritten letters throughout the school year. The format encourages literacy, emotional expression and one-on-one connection, making it a great fit for volunteers with busy schedules.

While the programs vary in structure, they all rely on the same foundation – committed community members willing to invest time, compassion and consistency. Volunteers must be 18 or older, live within 15 miles of Minot and complete a screening process that includes a background check, interview and training.

According to Companions for Children, the need for mentors is ongoing and growing. Teachers and counselors regularly refer students who may be struggling with confidence, social development or a sense of belonging. In many cases, the presence of a trusted adult can make a meaningful difference in that child’s academic and emotional growth.

“Having more volunteers means we can say yes to more kids,” said Brendan Dick, a member at large with Companions for Children. “These are small time commitments with a big impact.”

To help expand the reach of these programs, the organization also is encouraging sponsorships. A $2,000 sponsorship supports one school site for an entire year, covering training, materials and ongoing mentor support.

Companions for Children has long been a pillar of mentorship in the region, operating both school-based and community-based programs.