TONY Villa has spent the past several years literally by the sides of Warilla High School’s at-risk students.
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Mr Villa has been a mentor to students as part of the Illawarra High School Support Program, a joint initiative started six years ago between Warilla High and the St Vincent de Paul Society. This collaboration includes breakfast and mentoring initiatives.
But Mr Villa is about to retire from the program and organisers are seeking other mentors from throughout the community.
The Illawarra High School Support Program has since expanded to Oak Flats and Kanahooka High Schools and also includes a vintage car program.
Mr Villa’s mentoring role includes going into classrooms and sitting with at-risk students, helping them focus and providing encouragement.
The 80-year-old is leaving the program for health reasons, but as Vinnies’ regional treasurer, he plans to continue participating in their other activities.
‘‘It’s an interesting environment, the different kids you meet,’’ he said.
‘‘You just need to be attentive to the needs of the child. You find out what they are, make sure their minds are on the job. Helping people, I just enjoy it.’’
Support program worker Janelle Trigg said students felt at home with mentors like Mr Villa.
‘‘They give the young ones this wonderful feeling of, ‘it’s okay’,’’ she said.
‘‘It doesn’t matter how big the problem is.’’
Ms Trigg said this reflected the program’s friendly, family-oriented nature.
‘‘Kids come into the program and are anxious; we’re there for them to feel okay,’’ she said.
‘‘There’s nothing to be ashamed about to come and have breakfast with us. They’re welcomed and respected.’’
Warilla High principal John Hambly said Mr Villa had been a ‘‘real trailblazer’’.
‘‘I believe the only formal agreement (of its type) within NSW (high schools) is between us and Vinnies. We look after the entire kid and Tony embodies that,’’ Mr Hambly said.
‘‘We’re trying to ensure every student has equality of opportunity.’’
The breakfast program recently received a $9000 Clubs NSW grant. Vinnies needs volunteers for mentoring and breakfast programs. Phone 42764224 or 0427936601.
