MEDIA RELEASE - 15th October 2004

Local teenagers reconnect with learning with the help of NRMA Insurance
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Teenagers from the Airds Bradbury area struggling to stay in school now have a second chance to stay connected following the launch of a homework group run by Fr Chris Riley’s Youth Off The Streets Airds Outreach Program.

The homework group last week received special encouragement through the donation of six brand new computers from the Ethan Group, a computer wholesaler, who got involved with Youth Off The Streets following the encouragement of NRMA Insurance.

Paul Statham, Ethan Group principal was so impressed with the organisation that he has already signed up as a volunteer to help out some of the other Youth Off The Streets programs.

Paul Hardie, Project Manager at NRMA Insurance said: “We’re proud to be working with Youth Off The Streets, helping them with financial support, as well as volunteering our time on various projects. It’s a great program that makes a real difference in the local community. We’re really pleased that our suppliers and business partners, like the Ethan Group, can share our passion for Youth Off The Streets”

Martin John, Coordinator of the Youth Off The Streets Airds Outreach program and homework group said: “Many of the young people in our program have real difficulties at school and just do not have access to technology at home to keep up with the other students”

“Ethan Group’s donation means that the young people in our program will no longer be disadvantaged due to their limited access to technology. In the long run, this means that they will have a much greater chance of succeeding at school and reaching their greatest potential.”

Since commencing their first Outreach program in Airds in 2000 Youth Off The Streets have become a well known presence in the local community. In addition to the homework group they provide sport and recreation activities and a barbecue for local teenagers on Friday and Monday nights as well as regular movie nights and market stalls.

There are more than 60 teenagers attending the programs with space for plenty more. There are also lots of opportunities for locals to get involved as volunteers and help make a difference in their local area.
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NOTE TO EDITOR

Youth Off The Streets is a not for profit organisation that works for disadvantaged young people who are recovering from homelessness, addiction and abuse. Youth Off The Streets provides a range of services to young people including supported accommodation; counselling; detoxification, education; outreach; mentoring and supported residential facilities which help young people to make the transition back into the mainstream community.