Causes: Federated Giving Programs, Philanthropy

Mission: Western Wellness Foundation Inc. was founded in 1995.Today, our mission is making a positive difference in children and families, one at a time. We serve the eight-county region of southwest North Dakota. The Best Friends Mentoring Program is the main program of Western Wellness, which holds the 501(c)3 status for all its programs.

Results: We match a minimum of 175 youth each year with a trained, caring adult volunteer mentor. Our recently-completed external evaluation showed that:94% of mentored youth in Best Friends Program improved their behavior90% of mentored youth improved their academic competency88% improved their social skills42% demonstrated overall GPA improvement in math and reading, combined

Target demographics: at-risk youth, ages 6-16, in the 8 county region of southwest North Dakota.

Direct beneficiaries per year: More than 175 at-risk youth who need extra adult guidance and support to be successful.

Geographic areas served: 8 counties of southwest North Dakota

Programs: School-based mentoring: the mentor meets with the mentee at school, usually during the student's lunch time, to eat together and play on the playground or read or have computer time. Community-based mentoring: the mentor and mentee meet together outside of school time to enjoy activities together. Literacy Mentoring: the mentor provides encouragement, support and tutoring to the mentee during the school day.