"The beginning is the most important part of the work."

"The beginning is the most important part of the work." Plato

Before the start of the current program cycle, we received an inquiry from the association CEZAR from Srbac expressing their interest in implementing the Older Brother Older Sister program in their community. We received many recommendations both from them and for them and decided to give them an opportunity. Through online meetings, we got to know coordinator Marija Šnjegota, associate Tanja Šnjegota and social worker Suzana Kovačević who left the impression of being capable young women eager to do something meaningful for their community, especially for children and youth. We provided them with support during the training of volunteers and continued to assist them through meetings and consultations. At the end of May, we conducted a monitoring visit. We had the opportunity to attend an advisory meeting with the volunteers where we heard incredible stories from each of them. From an older sister and younger brother who resemble each other so much in personality and even in physical appearance to volunteers who helped their younger sisters prepare for their final elementary school exams. Srbac is an example of a small community where the Older Brother Older Sister program is highly recognized. As a result, two young girls were given the opportunity to have their nails and hair done for their graduation ceremony free of charge by a local beautician.

We spoke with the staff of the CEZAR Association about current developments and the challenges they have faced. Here is what associate Marija had to say following our monitoring visit: "We were delighted to welcome Ivana and Nerma back after several months. Their feedback on our work means a great deal to us. Likewise, their advice is of great importance as this is our first year implementing the Older Brother Older Sister program in our local community. Challenges are inevitable in any project particularly minor difficulties that arise during implementation but together as a team along with Ivana and Nerma we manage to resolve them easily. As for the donors I truly commend them as I believe that every aspect of this project has been sufficiently funded with nothing left out."

Through our experience with new organizations we can conclude that every beginning is difficult but as Plato said "The beginning is the most important part of the work." everything becomes easier as time goes on.

Many thanks to Marija and Tanja for their hospitality. We are confident that such a strong beginning will lead to a long and successful collaboration!

Ivana Radić
Executive Director
Foundation for the Support and Development of Mentoring Programs
Older Brother Older Sister