The Sidekicks mentoring program paired over a dozen Hamilton students with children from Clinton Elementary School on Dec. 4 to enjoy a cookie decorating party with holiday-themed crafts, snacks and games.
“Sidekicks is a good way for Hamilton students to learn more about the community and Clinton itself, and it’s also nice for students, especially those who miss may their younger siblings, to have a buddy that looks up to them,” explained e-board member Dana Holloway ’18. “For the Clinton students, they get to see what college life is like and what Hamilton is like too while having fun.”
Volunteer Annie McArdle ’17 has been participating in the program since her first year of college, partnered with her sidekick Matt, aged 13. Together, they’ve gone on several adventures both on and off campus such as playing sports together, eating at the dining hall, and taking trips off campus (including Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park in New Hartford).
“I like how we do something different every time and get to eat really good food,” said Matt. “It’s a nice break from school.”
Not only did the event give an event for the buddies to meet and play with one another, but it also helped spread the holiday spirit among both Hamilton students and the children.
