The Mirrors Programme may be forced to reduce the number of young people entering the programme unless new volunteers step forward.

Programme coordinator Kim Jackson said Mirrors is looking for 30 new adult volunteers to coach youngsters and assist with a residential session scheduled to start next Saturday.

“If the maximum number is not reached the current volunteers will have to coach two students,” she said. “Our goal is one-on-one for maximum benefit to the youth. [We] will also utilise the Mirrors team to support the youth.

“Our focus is to create a balance for maximum results. It may also mean that we are forced to reduce the number of students we take in this cycle.”

She did not say how many young people could be affected if there is a shortfall of volunteers.

The programme is seeking 20 adults to become “committed partners,” helping to coach a young person over a nine-month period starting in November

“Committed Partners coach the participants that complete the programme for nine months to achieve their immediate life goals,” Ms Jackson said. “The programme design creates the opportunity for youth to succeed within the time period.”

Another ten volunteers are being sought to work as residential volunteers for a nine-day residential session to start on November 2.

Those who are interested in volunteering their time will first have to go through workshops, which are scheduled to take place today and this weekend.

Ms Jackson urged members of the public to step forward, saying: “It amazes me to see young people wanting something different in their lives. Now the call is to adults to support them through this transformation.

“We are asking our community supporters to call your friends, family, colleagues or anyone in your circle and refer them to Mirrors. We need adults to step-up and make a difference in the life of our youth.”

Since its inception in 2007, the Mirrors Programme has worked with more than 1,800 adults and 500 young people. Numerous participants have said the programme has changed their life, given them a new understanding of life and made them feel better about themselves.

Mirrors graduate Tahirah Butterfield said the volunteers who helped her through the programme played a huge role in her accomplish her goals.

“I remember when I completed the programme, and what it was like to have someone support me in accomplishing the goals I was working on,” she said. “With the support of my Committed Partner my goals became a reality and I am able to stand as a strong, confident and responsible young woman.”

For more information or to volunteer, call the Mirrors office at 294-9291 or e-mail mirrors@gov.bm or kvjackson@gov.bm.