It takes a community to raise a community.
Our Biggest Needs
Be a “lunch buddy”
Brighten a child’s day. As a School-Based Mentor or “lunch buddy,” you will be paired with a referred youth, typically between the ages of 5-10. You will join your mentee for lunch in their elementary school cafeteria at least one day per week for at least two academic semesters. You may bring your own lunch or purchase lunch in the cafeteria. Lunch provided for mentee.
Be a Community-Based Mentor
As a Community-Based Mentor you will be matched with a referred youth between the ages of 6-17. Mentors and mentees are matched based on careful staff analysis of personalities and shared interests. Matches spend at least 8 hours per month together for at least one year. Matches often take enriching field trips, discuss life and life’s challenges, complete projects, and more together. WYN mentors guide youth and also support and care for them during difficult times. All mentors undergo a vigorous vetting and training process before placement and have access to WYN staff expertise for the duration of their match. This program is similar to the national Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
Afterschool Tutor
Join us at our facility on weekdays from 3:30-5:30pm to provide critical academic tutoring for our middle school students. Individualized attention and support helps our students comprehend their course work and find the confidence they need to perform in the classroom. After homework hour, enjoy connecting to the students through sports, crafts, music, and more.
Other Typical Year-Round Needs
Looking for a one-time volunteer opportunity for you or your organization? Thank you for thinking to help WYN! Below is a list of our current one-time volunteer needs. Email info@westernyouthnetwork.org for more information:
Year-Round Needs
WYN is always in need of personal hygiene products for our youth and their families at all of our afterschool sites in Watauga, Ashe, and Alleghany counties. These products include deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, menstrual products, face cleanser, etc. If you and your group are interested in having a drive to collect these items for any of our afterschool programs, please contact info@westernyouthnetwork.org before holding a drive to connect with our staff about current needs.
November-December: Festival of Trees
During the Festival of Trees, Western Youth Network and its volunteers transform the community into a magical winter wonderland with over 40 themed and decorated trees and wreaths on display at local businesses. Trees and wreaths are decorated by local businesses, friend groups, and community organizations and the result is always stunning. It is a festive holiday spectacle for all ages. Trees available for purchase via auction or buy-it-now price on our online auction. All proceeds benefit programs of Western Youth Network. To get involved, email festival@westernyouthnetwork.org
134 Doctors Drive, Boone, NC 28607
(Watauga Office)
(828) 264-5174
(828) 264-0838
info@westernyouthnetwork.org
Avery County Programs: (828) 783-9181
Connect
At WYN, we value what makes you unique, in fact, we celebrate it. We believe that when people feel respected, it provides space for them to thrive. Inclusion and acceptance fosters a safe environment for everyone. WYN is committed to providing a safe space for all, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience. Together, we explore diverse perspectives to propel our initiatives forward and transform the High Country community. Everyone is welcome here, authentically and holistically.