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 

  • January 2024
    • 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!

Printable version of the 2024_Spring_Gustie_Buddies_Schedule 

How to Apply

Applications have closed for the year. If you are interested in being put on a waitlist, please email Amy at apehrson@gustavus.edu

Gustavus Students: Click Here for a volunteer application. Applications have closed.

Community Members: Click here for a buddy application. Applications have closed.

Find Us on Social Media

 

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Coordinators
Name Role Gustavus Email Address
Allison Laux Coordinator allilaux@gustavus.edu
Jenna Hogstad Coordinator jennahogstad@gustavus.edu
Jacob Partington Coordinator jtpartington@gustavus.edu
Ava Kraemer Coordinator avakraemer@gustavus.edu