Youth Great Southern funding set to help Albany organisations take next steps in supporting local youth

Youth Great Southern has committed almost $700,000 in funding to two Albany youth organisations over the next two years, aiming to invest in local teams working to keep young people supported and engaged.

Albany Youth Support Association and Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation will both receive funding over the next two years, to go towards a range of activities that are helping local youth.

Albany Youth Support Association will receive $500,000 over two years, to support their employment of youth workers.

Being able to employ more youth workers will help the organisation to keep engaging with young people and providing them with support that is specific to their needs.

AYSA chief executive Bec I’Anson said a young person being able to build a trusting partnership with support workers could be the difference that gets them the help they need.

“At AYSA, we know that a trusted relationship can make it easier for a young person to ask for help, stay connected and take their next step,” she said.

“This investment will strengthen our youth work capacity so we can keep offering practical support, early help and meaningful opportunities.

“We want young people to feel a sense of belonging and to have support to shape their own futures.”

Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation will receive $190,000 over two years. Chief executive Stuart Roberts said funding would similarly help the organisation employ staff who would be the best fit to help Indigenous youth connect and strive for their futures.

“This investment is about more than funding a position, it is about investing in the potential of Aboriginal young people and making sure they have someone they can turn to,” he said.

“Young people need to know that someone believes in them, understands where they come from and will walk alongside them.

“With Youth Great Southern’s support, we can provide that consistent connection through someone young people know, trust and identify with.

“We want young people to know they belong, that their culture is something to be proud of, and that they have people around them who believe in what they can achieve.

“This is about creating brighter futures for the next generation.”