Nerang YACCA
Philosophy & Vision
The youth support program aims to empower "at risk" young people by providing them with a supportive alternative avenue for achieving their behavioural, educational or employment goals. We endeavour to cater to their individual needs as the participants work towards outcomes such as greater confidence , improved communication, team-work, job - readiness, problem solving and goal building skills.
Characteristics of the area in which we work
The Nerang region has a considerable proportion of residents with low socio-economic status. Much of the population is transient. Nerang is a multicultural community with numerous local aboriginal and Torres Strait islander groups and an increasing population of Maori and Pacific Islanders. Young people participating in the program have experienced considerable difficulty "fitting in" to main stream education.
Activities and services that we provide
The program offers one-on-one support and group workshops which focus on developing each young person's strengths and assisting them to set educational, employment and behavioural goals. A youth drop-in centre operates five days a week for young people seeking help or a safe place to hang out. The Nerang YACCA program also runs a Breakfast Club, Court Support, ‘Study Zone' and ‘Sports in the Park BBQ'. The YACCA building has been designated a ‘Youth Referral Hub' for the Gold Coast where young people and their families can access a range of other services during the week.
Our model of service delivery
As a result of discussion with the local Truancy Network, Schools and with other YACCA services, the service delivery of the Nerang YACCA has changed to meet the needs of the local community. The Bert Swift Community Centre is used as a referral hub for young people and their families in the local area. Other local agencies work from this centre to meet the growing need for a referral, information and advice service that can accommodate a higher number of young people and their families. Individual case management and support plans help identify clients needs and activities are based around these needs. Activities are developed to meet needs and each component addresses a number of outcomes through; Individual and family support, recreation/leisure activities, community centre based development and support and social and personal development. When participants are ready, they are encouraged to move on to education, traineeships or employment.
Recent Outcomes
Last year 70% of clients exited the program into further / higher education or training or employment. Young people also showed a greater engagement with the community, a reduction in crime and also reached some personal goals.
Recent Community Development projects
To facilitate the delivery of its programs and activities, Nerang YACCA collaborates with:
• Nerang PCYC
• Nerang police - helping break down the barriers between young people and the police.
• Local high schools and primary schools
Last year, young people volunteered for various community projects such as dune restoration and foodbank. Young people also volunteered at the Animal Welfare league and were linked to local businesses.
