Geelong Youth Engagement

Geelong Youth Engagement transforms the lives of at-risk youth by empowering them to achieve their full potential. Staff and mentors help young people with multiple disadvantages work towards a more positive future by supporting them to engage with their school, family and community. We refer participants to other services where needed.

Through focused programs for youth aged 12-18, we encourage engagement with education, employment and family; increase confidence; build resilience; create engagement; and increase self-belief in the youth we work with.

Our programs are:
Geelong Youth Kokoda Program: An annual program which culminates in walking the Kokoda Trek. At-risk youth are identified by partner schools or TAFE. Volunteer mentors from local businesses and government organisations pay to participate. The relationships developed and networks formed can have life-changing impacts. Participants may remain involved and have access to mentors long-term. A 20-week training program prepares participants for Kokoda.

Spring Back Geelong: A resilience-based program for Year 10 students, focusing on vocational opportunities as a way of encouraging them to stay at school longer and reduce their involvement in risky and/or criminal activity. Participants spend two days a week, for one term, undertaking challenges and activities including surfing, sailing, cooking, equine therapy, TAFE Tester programs, visits to businesses and government organisations.

You Just Never Know: Four sessions held annually for 3000 Year 11 students. Aimed at learner drivers at-risk of contributing to or being victims of road trauma through their behaviour. Sessions highlight road safety, featuring speakers with lived experience of road trauma.

WEBSITE