From October 11 to 12, 2025, the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre organized an introductory training for new volunteers in the Older Brother, Older Sister program. The training brought together a group of 17 young people who selflessly decided to offer friendship and attention to children at risk.

During the two-day training, volunteers were introduced to the basic principles of mentoring relationships, the importance of emotional support and trust-building, and ways in which simple shared activities—such as conversations, walks, games, or help with schoolwork—can help them become a positive figure in a child’s life.

Through interactive workshops and work with program facilitators, participants discussed empathy, communication, boundaries, and responsibility, and received practical guidelines for working with children aged 6 to 14. The training was also an opportunity for them to connect with one another, share their expectations and concerns, and understand how a sincere relationship can change the lives of both the child and the volunteer.

In the coming period, the “older brothers” and “older sisters” will begin spending time with the children, with continuous support from the professional team, as well as regular meetings and workshops.

The Older Brother, Older Sister program, implemented by the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre since 2004, connects volunteers with children who need additional attention, warmth, and a sense of security. Over the past twenty years, this mentoring program has changed hundreds of lives and built a network of young people who believe in the importance of togetherness, kindness, and mutual support.

The new volunteers emphasized that they are looking forward to volunteering and taking on responsibility, and that they feel a strong need to contribute to the Older Brother, Older Sister program.

The core idea of volunteering can be summed up in the belief that what truly belongs to us is what we selflessly give. And that is precisely the most beautiful and meaningful part of this program.

The training was held in cooperation with the Foundation for Support and Development of Mentorship Older Brother, Older Sister.

Ajna Maličbegović