Tom Anderson This is Me

 Web References

1. 1. Hamilton Spectator - Special Sections

   www.hamiltonspectator.com/NASA - [Cached]

   Published on: 8/30/2002   Last Visited: 8/30/2002

   "Kids need something that they feel connected to outside of school or home," says Tom Anderson, program manager, Emotional Problems Service, with the Child and Family Centre in Hamilton.
   
   He says cost, lack of transportation and lack of awareness of programs can compound emotional or behavioural problems in kids by further isolating them from mainstream influences. Breaking down those barriers is the purpose of a recreation mentoring program in Hamilton that involves matching teenage volunteers with younger children through Big Brothers.
   
   "One important lesson is that recreation isn't just a frill, it isn't only about having fun. It's also a way of making kids feel connected to the community, making kids feel the community has something for them."