Have you heard of Youthline? If not, do you live in New Zealand? Do you know any young people in your community who need guidance or a helping hand?
If so, Youthline might be the solution. Read on to discover what Youthline is all about and how it helps NZ teens to grow up to become happy, successful adults.
What is Youthline?
With the help of former CEO, Stephen Bell, staff, and volunteers, Youthline created an organization to help struggling young people thrive in their communities. The organization and its programs are built upon four pillars:
- Provide stellar service
- Adhere to Youthline philosophies and practices
- Provide building blocks for teens to thrive
- Research and Develop additional teen programs
Above all else, the organization values connections. The teenage brain is malleable and easily susceptible to outside influences. That’s precisely the reason that healthy relationships with counselors, parents, and educators are paramount.
And Youthline doesn’t just support any old character who fills that role. The organization focuses on adults who value community, diversity, and “can do” attitudes. And don’t forget realness.
It’s the value that Youthline teens most frequently respond.
How Does Youthline Work?
The organization is filled with both paid staff and an overwhelmingly supportive volunteer crew. They do everything from delivering materials to teach classes. It’s a little like a community volunteer program but designed specifically for struggling teens.
- Bullying
- Abuse
- Drugs and alcohol
- Sex
- Education
- Future Goals
- Community
Youthline provides a variety of specific services. Everything from face-to-face counseling to one-on-one mentoring is covered. Yep, training and workshops are included too, along with events like the Auckland Marathon.
The organization realizes that overtaxed parents and underfunded schools can’t provide all the elements necessary for optimal growth. As such, they fill in the gaps. They assume the responsibilities once held by a teen’s community, the responsibility of influencing and educating the next generation.
What’s the Youthline Age Range?
If you’re interested in Youthline services, they can help. The staff built most programs to accommodate teens, but they won’t exclude you because of your age. The programs focus on events and hurdles that teens face, so they’re geared toward specific struggles, not specific age groups.
What if you’re an adult but want to be a part of the action? Consider becoming a Youthline volunteer. Programs run all over New Zealand:
- Albany
- West Auckland
- Auckland Central
- Manukau
- Palmerston North
- Wellington
- Central South Island
- Dunedin
- Oamaru
- Invercargill
Each area runs multiple classes, events, and programs. Community members add new events every month, and new classes and programs each year. If you’re a teen or an adult, and you’re interested, there’s room for you.
What’s Next?
Youthline is New Zealand’s number one community program built specifically for teens. It helps them adapt and grow into strong, community-oriented adults. If you’d like to find out more, reach out today. If you found this article helpful, zip over to our tremendous digital library full of other topics including education, health, and entertainment.