Gustie Buddies

Gustie Buddies is a mentorship program that pairs Gustavus students and youth with developmental delays from St. Peter and the surrounding communities to foster friendship and personal growth.  Volunteers meet four times a month with their buddy. Two of which are planned group activities and two are individual meetings. Last year, the group activities included bowling, a Minnesota Twins game, science experiments, canvas painting and many other fun activities.

Mission

The mission of Gustie Buddies is to provide a safe environment for youth with developmental delays from St. Peter and the surrounding communities to strengthen personal skills, increase self confidence and build relationships. This will happen through positive and compassionate relationships with Gustavus students who are committed to promoting growth in understanding of themselves and others through dynamic and intentional programming.

Important Dates to Know

  • Fall 2022
    • October 18 - Meet your Buddy Bonfire!
    • November 1- Trick or Treating Event - start at Lund Center
    • November 8 - individual week
    • November 15 - Thanksgiving Party & Tie Dye
    • November 29 - Carnival Night
    • December 6 - Individual week
    • December 13 - Holiday Party
  • January 2023
    • Most Gusties travel, do an internship, or work during our J-term. Therefore they most likely will not be on campus this month. We encourage everyone to stay connected via zoom, phone call, or pen pals!
  • Spring 2023:
    • February 6 - classes start for Gusties
    • April 1-9 - Gusties are on spring break
    • May 18 - Last day of class for Gusties

How to Apply

The program is now full! Thanks everyone!!

Gustavus Students: Click Here for a volunteer application. Applications are due September 23, 2022.

Community Members: Click here for a buddy application. They are due asap. Thanks!

Find Us on Social Media

 

Coordinators
Name Role Gustavus Email Address
Sarah Elliott Coordinator selliot2@gustavus.edu
Joseph Hauge Coordinator jhauge@gustavus.edu
Allison Laux Coordinator allilaux@gustavus.edu
Jenna Hogstad Coordinator jennahogstad@gustavus.edu