| Behind the Shop Front |
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With over 70 young men in 2009 involved in our programmes we had to take a close look at our model and strategic plan for the future. Since commencing the Lotterywest funded Halo Unfinished project in March 2009 we have inspired and supported young people to give up and stay off drugs, reduced the re-offending rate and transitioned many others into employment and further education.
The unique model using a positive psychology approach focuses not on what needs to be fixed but on what 'can be' and inspires new found hope, determination, self belief and action. Participants work hard taking a really good look at all areas of their lives including their social, physical and emotional wellbeing. Our programmes include opportunities for many young people to connect to their culture, family histories and begin meeting their Community, Cultural, Social Leadership and Reconciliation obligations.
Most participants play in our Halo Magpies Aussie Rules, cricket and basketball teams. Sport provides a wonderful opportunity for participants to strengthen their own personal capacity and develop a sense of belonging.
Many participants play in our Halo Magpies Aussie Rules, cricket and basketball teams. Sport provides a wonderful opportunity for participants to strengthen their own personal capacity and develop a sense of belonging.
Motivational & PD WorkshopsThe Halo team together also provide youth driven Motivational & Professional Development to workers and Cultural, Career and Life Coaching Workshops to young people. Read more...
Closing the Op-ShopDue to the increase in numbers one of the decisions made during 2009 was to close the op-shop and transform this into our training room. This was by no means and easy decision to make. However, closing the shop has created space for two additional offices a gym and a small art studio that in January 2010 will become home of the Halo Art Project. We hope the the outside tables and chairs will provide an inviting opportunity for the community to continue to come inside, speak to our artists, meet our young programme participants and continue sharing their journeys, great conversation and coffee. Since making these changes we have already outgrown this space and are planning to build a new home for Halo leadership. Click here for future 2010 building project plans.
In terms of what works for young people that will lead them to take on decision making roles The Foundation for Young Australians (2003) assert there are three key elements: • Meaning: doing something that has a bigger purpose and that they believe in. • Control: making decisions, being heard and having the skills to see a task through. • Connectedness: working with others and being part of something bigger.
"Halo gives young people the opportunity to take part in programmes that give them a sense of purpose, something they believe in. It allows them to not only take control of their own lives but to work together to become part of something bigger. These young men are not only affecting change in their own lives they are changing the world for others" (Founder Lee-Anne Smith) |
