| Background and support for 2011 |
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As we move into 2011 we are grateful for the funding received from the ATSI Healing foundation and the Australian Federal Government's IEP Program as well as the City of Cockburn for providing our new venue at a peppercorn rent. This support will allow us to continue our valuable and much needed work.
Since commencing the Lotterywest funded Halo Unfinished project in March 2009 the program has inspired and supported young people to give up and stay off drugs, reduced the re-offending rate and transitioned many others into further employment and further education.
The unique model using a positive psychology and a peer mentoring 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, cultural 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 are involved in our Halo Magpies Aussie Rules football team, basketball team and take part in the boxing and fitness program. Sport provides a wonderful opportunity for participants to strengthen their own personal capacity and develop a sense of belonging.
"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. 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.
Participants at Halo are not only affecting change in their own lives they are changing the world for others" (Founder Lee-Anne Smith) |
