By Stephanie Crowley
The Morristown-based Knights of Columbus George Washington Council #359 honored the Kids2Kids Special Needs Mentoring Program at its June meeting.
A national organization engaged in charity, the Knights of Columbus support local programs that align with their core principles of charity, unity and fraternity. The Kids2Kids Special Needs Mentoring Program does just that.
“Kids2Kids not only teaches students about empathy and the power of giving, but also gives any kid the platform to take responsibility and become an asset to the organization. Kids2Kids does not care about GPA or athletic ability, it gives kids a place to learn and grow without judgment and an opportunity to go through trials and error,” said mentor Rachel Farbman, a rising senior at Morristown High School.
“Any mentor who has volunteered with us will say that K2K is a safe haven, for any kid, mentor, or parent that walks through the door.”
The Kids2Kids program began with a focus on the special needs community. Structured to be run by kids for kids, a board of dedicated students was formed.
This organization has grown from two programs a week to five programs, serving more than 130 families on weeknights and weekends.
More than 200 volunteer mentors have been recruited. The latest program uses drama to teach language skills. Dr. Steven Tobias, a psychologist, is lending his expertise.
These young mentors take time from their busy academic and athletic schedules for Kids2Kids. Last year, more than 50 mentors received the President’s Volunteer Service Award, which has lofty requirements that set mentors apart on their college applications.
For more information on how to become involved or donate to Kids2Kids, please visit the nonprofit’s website.
