ADRA 4 Youth

ADRA doesn’t just help people who are in need and live far away. They do things for young people locally, too!

Many of Adventist Development and Relief Agency’s (ADRA) long-term projects are designed to connect with young people, helping them help themselves to a better future.

Circle of Courage Bike Ride
The “Circle of courage” bike ride is an activity designed to raise awareness of the need to build resilience in youth, especially those in rural communities. Some young people come from challenging and often negative family backgrounds, and are at risk of destructive behaviours. Resilience is the ability of those young people to resist at-risk behaviours, living positive and healthy lives.

The “Circle of courage” team departed from Perth, WA, on April 5, travelling through the southern regions of Australia, and finished in Sydney in early May. The riders spoke in towns along the way about resilience, with the aim of helping reduce “at-risk” behaviour in young people by promoting self-worth and value.

The “Circle of courage” represents four building blocks for nurturing young people and developing their courage. These include: the spirit of belonging, the spirit of mastery, the spirit of independence, and the spirit of generosity. Applying these principles helps people respect themselves and others, and fosters a positive purpose in life.

Chance on Main, Tasmania
Chance on Main is a youth centre in Main Street, Moonah, near Hobart. The centre provides at-risk youth and young offenders with the opportunity to participate in positive activities and recreation. The centre offers teenagers the chance to learn new skills, address personal issues and get involved in the community, all within a nurturing and safe environment. Chance on Main aims to help young people develop skills relating to job readiness, decision making, personal development and improved health and well-being.

Leavers STORM Co, WA
Leavers STORM Co is a program designed to positively connect with young people leaving school. The program’s primary focus is the celebration week after school finishes, known as Leavers or Schoolies Week. In partnership with Hotel Chaplaincy Australia, Leavers STORM Co provides education prior to Leavers Week, and alternatives and presence during Leavers Week, as a positive influence on school leavers.

Prior to Leavers Week, police talk to students about prevention of at-risk behaviours, the dangers associated with drink-driving and predators who will try to take advantage of leavers. They also tell them about the “red frog people” who are there to help. During Leavers Week, Leavers STORM Co hand out red frogs to help “break the ice” and connect with young people.

During the celebration week, Leavers STORM Co delivers harm reduction strategies that include evening BBQs, recovery breakfasts, evening movies, sport activities, a chill-out tent with first aid service and, in general, a safe place for young people to come and chat. These activities are designed to offer alternatives to drinking.