Hi everyone! 

My name is Maddie Gilbert and I have had a passion for working with children for as long as I can remember. Whenever I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up I always said a teacher. Now here I am, an Inclusive and Elementary Childhood Education major who spends her extra time mentoring children from the local area through Bona Buddies.

Bona Buddies is a mentorship program where students from the local area come to St. Bonaventure's campus for two hours. Each child that is a part of the program is matched with a St. Bonaventure student mentor (aka, me). The mentor and the child get to hang out, play games, and even interact with other clubs on campus. This program offers a safe space for kids to unwind after school and to have a positive role model to look up to.

Bona Buddies has given me the opportunity to make connections with students outside of the classroom. It has opened my eyes to how important a solid role model for young children is in their development. Not only that, but it is fun for me too! It brings out my inner child! My buddy and I have built a friendship that I know will stick with me throughout my remaining years at St. Bonaventure, as well as the rest of my life.

A donation from you would mean smiles on the faces of all the people who put so much effort into making sure Bona Buddies is a successful program. More importantly, a donation would mean Bona Buddies gets to keep making a difference in the lives of local children.

Thank you! On behalf of Bona Buddies, thank you! All donations are so deeply appreciated!