Kokoda Youth Mentoring Program

The Kokoda Youth Mentoring Program is currently preparing to make another assault on the Kokoda Track in September 2010 with Kokoda Spirit, and MASP is encouraging and supporting community members and young people from various backgrounds to get involved.The Kokoda Youth Mentoring Program is an effective way of providing young people and their mentors with a supportive, empowering and life changing experience.

The Program has been successful in assisting young people to set goals, gain employment, move into independent living, remain at or re-engage with school and re-conntect with their community. It has allowed participants to develop a greater self esteem and confidence through positive relationships. Some young people have able to take control of their life situation and can now seek encouragement and support through their mentors with whom they have developed trusting relationships.

The program is delivered over a 12 month period and involves personal development , physical training, the Kokoda Trek and ongoing mentoring support for the young people involved. The young people are matched with mentors during the initial team building sessions and goal setting stage. A physical training program and goal setting sessions then helps to develop a connection between the mentor/mentee and with the other members in the group. The highlight of the program is the Kokoda Trek which provides an intense physical and mental challenge for all involved. One of the most important aspects of the program is the ongoing support to the young people from the mentors after returnig from PNG. This includes encouragement and support to the young people in persuing their personal goals and aspirations.

Ongoing financial support is required to fund the young people involved while the adult mentors will be required to meet their own costs. Previous fundraising efforts, donations and inkind support from local business and the community have greatly assisted in operating the Program and they are greatly appreciated and valued. Anybody interested in assisting the Program or sponsoring a young person involved can contact Ken Innes at MASP during office hours on 03-50216507. Any support would be greatly appreciated to help continue this very worthwhile program in assisting the development of young people in our community.