The Volunteer Center will be holding orientation sessions for those who want to be a mentor and a friend for foster children.

The sessions will be from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11 in the Pioneer A Room of the University Center and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12 in the Cadillac Room of the U.C.

The orientation will explain how the Volunteer Center helps foster children through the Teaching Family Homes organization, as well as brainstorm ideas and plan a schedule of events.

“The program started in 2007 and has grown since,” said Nik Krawczyk, junior entrepreneurship major and Volunteer Center coordinator. “Now we work with them two to three times a week, not just tutoring, but also recreational events such as basketball or going to a hockey game.”

According to Krawcyzk, a background check is conducted for those applying.

“It’s great real-world experience and it’s a great time for the volunteers as much as it is for the kids,” Krawcyzk said. “Anyone who is energetic and enthusiastic about working with kids should consider coming to the orientation.”

For more information, email the Volunteer Center at [email protected] or call (906) 227-2466.