On retreat, enjoying their music. Brendan is pictured with one of the triple M mentors.

The year 2001 has been dedicated International Year of the Volunteer to recognise, promote, network and facilitate the many thousands of worthy causes promoted worldwide. Many choose a cause they have special skills to contribute, identify with or simply the time to give. However, one thing these individuals have in common is heart for those with genuine need.

A program with real cause and effect, the triple M - men mentoring men - seeks those aged 25 and over, who have the commitment to form a supportive friendship with a young man, whose life lacks positive male influence. Many of the boys who join the program come from a single parent background, with difficulties in forming friendships; however, their enthusiasm for the program is matched only, by the enthusiasm mentor's have for their special charges.

Leading Aircraftman Bradley Foxlewin (Ret'd) set up the program, with the help of ACT Government funding having personally acknowledged the difficulties of growing up without a father figure. The aim of the group is to provide support to young men through the development of trusting interpersonal friendship with an adult male mentor.

Mr Peter Sutton, ex-Air Force radio operator of 26 years, is one such mentor. A part time counsellor, Peter came to the program March 2000, a number of years after his Defence Force discharge with interest in taking a positive role. Brendan, 16, also keen to benefit from triple M, was lucky to have a mother who recognised its importance in the growth and development of her son. The two, mentor and 'mentoree', were matched for their personality, values and attitude, which Peter describes 'a complete hit'.

Peter cites his responsibility to Brendan to share his life experience, as a man, in order to encourage Brendan make informed choices in his life. They enjoy each other's company, so much so the mutual benefits to the lives of both the mentor and young charge are eminent. Peter noted personally, the difficulties young men have in the current social and economic climate, as opposed to the youth he enjoyed some 40 years ago.

'Brendan was initially timid; a softly spoken boy, but always punctual.' Not interested in going to school, with Peter's support, Brendan had until recently joined in a Government-funded training program that helped him develop skills in computers, maths and science. He is now pursuing other work interests.

Peter is currently completing his masters in 'Male grief due to disability', while working part time for Tuggeranong Community Service as a carer for the disabled. In addition, Peter runs his own counselling service for men, 'Healthy Growth', which promotes care through physical pursuits in the community, rather than the typical verbal session to address personal issues.

And what qualities are essential to a mentor of this nature? The most important is a sense of responsibility to the young man, in order for him to develop trust in the friendship. In addition, the mentor requires an ability to communicate, which includes the capacity to listen. Finally, the mentors simply need to be themselves to enjoy the opportunity they have to help the individual reach their full potential.

The program is a one-year commitment, which requires training 3 nights and a weekend near Canberra, after which the program's coordinator's will designate a young man with similar interests that you will be free to socialise with.

If you have the personality, life skills and experience to well contribute to the personal growth of a young man in the Canberra community, please contact the Young Men's Support Network on (02) 6282 2644 or at wcsadmin@wcs.org.au. A rewarding experience is guaranteed in a remarkable reality-based program.

By Amber McKinnon