Our Mission
Our mission is to change lives. We aim to deliver a free and relevant community life-skills mentoring programme to young people. We believe in encouraging young people to dream big for their lives: we believe giving them the opportunity to gain skills in different aspects of life will help them see they are all unique. These different gifts and talents are placed in them for a purpose and our view is that in helping each child understand this will give them a platform for their future.
An activity-based programme that targets at-risk children and youth, coaching and developing them to improve life skills, personal well-being and sense of community. The Programme aims to proactively engage with youth through fun and entertaining opportunities that they might not have experienced before. It works with young people and their families, engaging with representatives of local businesses, local government and community groups to support and encourage the youth in their personal development. Older youth (including those who have already left school) will be supported to explore work options and find local employment once they have finished school.
A 2018 statistical study by the University of Auckland Medical School and the Health Research Council has confirmed that the Pukekohe, Tuakau and Waiuku areas that we are targeting are amongst the "most deprived" in New Zealand. This is based on an index that covers community needs across employment, income, crime, housing, health and education. The problem is growing, and is at risk of being perpetuated for another generation.
We believe a significant contributing factor is a lack of positive mentoring and role models that young people need during their most formative years. Many have had difficult backgrounds and have limited opportunities and little (or no) exposure to consistent, positive role models. Some of them find it difficult to see beyond their circumstances; dreaming or aspiring to be or do great things with talents and abilities, but lacking basic self-belief, direction, encouragement and opportunities. These are the "at risk" ones that the Dream Big initiative intends to help.
We have a passion and heart for the community and young people. The Dream Big team will go into the community, reaching out to these young people and their families, and providing a focal point for community groups and businesses to contribute to their most at risk youth in a positive and practical way.
