Collaborative approach proves effective in development of youth

A recent report proves that a collaborative approach to youth development works. Project Kaikohe is a four-year pilot based on the idea that a series of four planned and co-ordinated educational programmes, working collaboratively will create a synergy which enhances the well-being of children, young people and their parents.

An evaluation of the pilot demonstrated that as a result of Project Kaikohe and its programmes HIPPY, Kiwi Can, Stars and Parents Inc. many Kaikohe individuals and their whanau in the community had been affected in a positive way.

Project Kaikohe was established in 2004 after coalition partners Foundation for Youth Development, Great Potentials Foundation and Parents Inc launched a strategy to work together to foster the well-being of children, young people and their families/whanau in Kaikohe to build a vibrant, safe, healthy and thriving community.

Ngapuhi Iwi Social Services ran the programmes in the community.

Graeme Dingle, Foundation for Youth Development co-founder and executive Trustee says of the project, “There have been a number of positive outcomes cited by programme participants, whanau, schools, community workers and providers as a result of Project Kaikohe and we are extremely happy with the results.”

The report noted substantial improvements in the education of participants with the number of school leavers with little or no attainment decreasing, the percentage of school leavers with no literacy or numeracy credits decreasing and early exemption rates being halved, gains not mirrored either in the far north or NZ as a whole.

It also illustrated that Project Kaikohe has strengthened the community by building new support networks between whanau and has given students the opportunity to make friends outside of their immediate peer group.

In addition, the project has strengthened relationships within whanau – between parents, grandparents and their children.

Mr Dingle says, “Many people have agreed it is critical that Project Kaikohe continues so that the positive gains made are sustained throughout the community.”