Mentoring program for young men starts in Woy Woy
A free program for young men, aged 17 to 25, "who have personal potential but are in need of positive mentors" started in Woy Woy last week.
Building Blokes is a mentoring and development program that discusses current issues facing men, according to organisers from the Top Blokes Foundation.
The organisation promotes the program for young men who "get into fights, drink too much, can't control anger, have poor relationships, keep getting fines or just aren't living your best life".
"Just by attending, participants can reduce their Revenue NSW fines by up to $2000."
Central Coast program coordinator Mr Kevin Hull said: "We want young men to be equipped with the skills that allow them to make the best decisions for their lives.
"Participants complete the program having learnt social and practical skills that allow them to make better informed decisions, ultimately improving their quality of life," he added.
The free eight-week program will be available at the Peninsula Community Centre, Woy Woy, from 1:30pm to 3:30pm, every Monday.
Places are still available in the program.
"The program will particularly benefit those who display disengaged and at-risk behaviours including; alcohol or drug usage, lack of interest in education or employment, gambling and other behavioural concerns.
During the program, participants will take part in a range of workshops covering various topics including: masculinity, gambling, drugs and alcohol, anger management, peer pressure and risk taking, mental health, realities of pornography, healthy relationships, sexual health and cyber bullying and sexting.
The programs are delivered by a fully-certified youth worker.
"Each youth worker carries current Working with Children and National Police Checks.
"They also receive ongoing training and development in key knowledge areas such as youth mental health, suicide prevention and intervention, trauma in youth, and cultural awareness training in-line with best practice and the latest industry standards.
"All Top Blokes Foundation staff are mandatory reporters and will work alongside community organisations in the event that a mandatory report is required," Mr Hull said.
A group of seven students from Brisbane Water Secondary College Umina campus recently graduated from a 16-week Junior Top Blokes Mentoring Program, designed for students aged 14 to 17 years.
SOURCE:
Media release, 25 Jul 2018
Kevin Hull, Top Blokes Foundation