Gemma (28) and Becci (26) have been involved with the Presbyterian Support (Otago) buddy programme in North Otago since earlier this year.
The programme provides support and guidance for children aged between 4 and 12, through friendship with a trained adult buddy.
The sisters underwent training in April, which they found enjoyable.
Becci was then matched with a 9-year-old boy and Gemma with a 7-year-old girl.
Becci does a lot of charity work with children in third world countries and has recently set up a website and sold her first piece of artwork, with the money going to a mission in Africa.
That got her thinking about what she could do for children in her own community.
Both she and Gemma were aware of the buddy programme as they had cousins who had little buddies years ago.
Becci contacted programme co-ordinator Viv Laming and then Gemma decided she also wanted to become a buddy.
Gemma "hangs out" with her young buddy once a week.
They play board and card games, bake, go swimming and visit the public gardens.
Becci, who has been teaching her buddy how to take photographs, said it had been great getting to know him.
Both wanted to encourage more young people to become adult buddies.
Plenty of support was provided, with monthly meetings held.
An information evening will be held later this year, with the next round of training probably in February or March.
There were seven boys and girls eager to be matched and anyone keen on becoming an adult buddy should contact Mrs Laming on 027 447 0123.
The buddy programme plans to have a plot at the new community gardens, with tomato and sunflower plantings planned for a buddy outing later this month.
