THE YO DIFFERENCE

At Youth Opportunities we value young people, we believe in them, we educate them and we motivate and inspire them to do the same for themselves.

Each year, through the delivery of our evidence based personal leadership and wellbeing programs, we equip more than 2,000 young South Australian's with the skills to overcome adversity, build resilience and prepare for their future, while also providing access to opportunities which help reduce barriers to achieving their potential.

WHY WE RAISE FUNDS

For many students the barriers to achieving success are greater because of social and financial disadvantage, making them at greater risk of being left behind due to having fewer opportunities and resources. This can lead to poorer life outcomes in education, employment, housing and health.

The donations we receive from our partners in the community enables us to support young people who are experiencing disadvantage by:

• subsidising the Youth Opportunities Personal Leadership Program for Year 10 students in schools where a high percentage of the cohort is experiencing social disadvantage;
• providing two years of follow up coaching to ensure the young person sustains the positive change, and is supported in achieving their goals;
• delivering parent and teacher workshops to support the growth of young people by sharing key program concepts and building stronger relationships;
• awarding of Scholarships to deserving students to remove financial barriers to future education and employment.

This wraparound approach ensures all young people, no matter their circumstances, are given every opportunity to not only cope, but thrive.

WHY WE NEED SUPPORT

Youth Opportunities receives limited Government Funding (less than 10% of our annual revenue) to tackle issues which are important to all our community. Which is why we are working hard to find new champions for our cause, people like you who believe in the value of our youth.

It costs Youth Opportunities $1,000 for one student to participate in our 10-week Personal Leadership Program, and receive two years of graduate follow up and coaching. Not a substantial amount when you consider significant the outcomes this program delivers:

• 52% reduction in the number of students at risk of developing a mental health disorder.
• 92% of students reported better relationships with their families.
• 94% of students believed they now had the skills to achieve their goals.
• 88% of students have a clearer understanding of their future.

This is why every dollar you give really is a wise investment because, not only are you helping remove the barriers that disadvantage can create, but you assist us in developing personal leaders who will contribute to a better community for all of us in South Australia.