A passion for making a difference in the lives of young people and preventing drug and alcohol related harm is driving a youth-led group of volunteers, which is currently recruiting for new members.
Youth Solutions’ Youth Advisory Group (YAG) has opened applications for its next intake of members, searching for young people in Macarthur who are keen to support and improve the health of young people in the community through volunteer work.
Young people aged between 17 and 25 who live, work, study or spend their recreation time in Macarthur and are passionate about youth health, are encouraged to apply by Friday, December 16.
Current YAG member Danielle Kahn, 19, says making a difference in the lives of her peers was her favourite part of being part of the volunteer group.
“Everyone at Youth Solutions makes you feel like you are more than just a volunteer,’’ Ms Khan said.
“They respect you and your views and are passionate about improving the lives of young people. They work in ways that suit the attitudes of young people,” she said.
Former YAG member Clarissa Tosti, 22, encouraged other young people to apply.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back, learn and teach youth about positive health,” she said.
Youth Solutions ceo Geraldine Dean said the YAG was a vital part of the service, assisting with community health promotion campaigns, project work and peer education workshops, as well as playing a vital consultative role for the service.
“Our YAG helps us to make sure our connection and work with young people is the best it can be,” Mrs Dean said.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“Research shows that young people respond positively to peer education, preferring to learn from their peers. Accordingly, youth participation is embedded within our service and our work and the YAG members play a large role in that.[/social_quote]
“The YAG members are involved in shaping our campaigns and projects, providing continual feedback for improvement and identifying opportunities to engage with and support the young people in our community.
“They also receive training and help us to facilitate peer-led programs with other young people,” Mrs Dean said.
“Being part of YAG also provides the members with some great professional development opportunities for young people, helping them to build their skills, knowledge and confidence, while also allowing them a rewarding opportunity to engage with and give back to their community.”
All YAG members are inducted and receive training to become peer educators. Accordingly, all applicants must be available for a one-day training in early 2017.
For further information or to have an application emailed or mailed out, contact the Youth Solutions team on 4628 2319.
Applications for the next intake of YAG can be downloaded from the Youth Solutions website here and returned via email to yag@youthsolutions.com.au.
