Our Mission
Our Mission
We are a Youth and whanau support agency based at Grace Vineyard Beach Campus in New Brighton. We have worked for over 30 years on the East of Christchurch, running a wide variety of programmes, clubs, groups, events and various supports for hundreds of people each week. A small staff team, is supported by an army of volunteers who want to make their community a better place!
Mission: Building Bright Futures with Young People in East Christchurch.
We currently do this through 10 key areas:
- Weekly Clubs
Our weekly after school and evening clubs including: Tamatāne Boys Club (Years 1 – 6), Kōtirotiro Girls Club (Years 1 – 6), Kitchen Klub (Years 6-9), Craft Club (Years 6 – 9), Rock Solid (Years 7 – 8), Surge (Years 9 – 13), Basketball (Years 3 – 6). - School Programmes
Supporting the students in class, on lunchtimes, and through extra curricula activities at Rawhiti Primary School & Shirley Boys High School. - Holiday Programmes
These run for three different age categories, Years 1 – 3, 4 – 6 & 5 – 9 in the first week every school holidays. We also run Breakaway programmes for Years 7 – 13 in the December & July holidays. (To Holiday Programmes) - Camps
We take youth on overnight and weekends away throughout the year, such as Easter Camp, Winter Camp, Surge Summer Camp, Famine Sleepover, AMPED Camp, Father Son Camps: Intermediates/Teens and Mother Daughter Days. - One on One.
Mentoring & Counselling: We provide a counsellor in 3 of our local schools each week for more specialist support for children and employ a mentoring coordinator who matches mentees and mentors for relational support, goal setting and a lot of encouragement. - Mana Ake
Wellbeing and mental health support workers in local primary schools, for children and whanau. (To Mana Ake) - Community Events
Large community events such as I Love Brighton, Eastside Youth Balls, School Fairs, EPIC Dance Parties & our Family Fun Night. - Parenting & Pre-school
Programmes and partnerships such as our two Beach Tots Playgroups, Breast-feeding Drop In, Parenting Seminars, Babysitting Training for teens, Parenting Toolbox Courses and Young Parents Antenatal Classes. - Amplify Music School
Musical instrument Lessons, Youth Bands and music recording in our purpose build music rooms and in schools. (To Amplify School of Music) - Volunteer Training and Support
We recruit, train and encourage volunteers to work in their community, on events, programmes and training events. We also host interns.
The 5 Ways of Wellbeing
Youth Alive Trust believes in the ‘5 Ways of Wellbeing’ and they fit into all our programmes! Here are some examples how we’re making a difference in the wellbeing of young people:
1. Connect, me whakawhanaunga. Connecting young people with adult role models/youth workers/mentors. Creating a place of belonging. Connecting to people different to you, and creating new friendships. Connecting to a larger organisation with other support networks and connections to specialist agencies.
2. Give, tukua. Volunteers and mentors giving of their time. Giving back to their communities through the youth programmes, community events and community service projects.
3. Take notice, me aro tonu. Self reflecting in mentoring sessions. Goal setting and celebrations once they’ve been achieved. Inspirational and spiritual talks that stimulate thoughts of who they are in their community and the wider world. Teaching and modelling of values.
4. Keep learning, me ako tonu. Music lessons. Sports training. Skills training such as crafts, cooking, activities, camps and new experiences. Training nights for volunteers.
5. Be active, me kori tonu. Getting away from screens and doing something active such as a run-around game, a sport, ice skating, table tennis, airsoft, basketball, disc golf, even just going for a walk.
Our Vision for the east of Christchurch is to provide 1) “Safe” places that children, young people and families are 2) “Supported Holistically” (socially, emotionally, mentally and spiritually) in a friendly and 3) “Fun” environment. Programmes are led by enthusiastic and compassionate staff and volunteers who take every opportunity to build self esteem and try new activities through oodles of 4) “Encouragement”. We provide an exciting and vibrant community, whose values are built on the Christian 5) “Faith”, that discriminates nobody and offers extra grace when often needed. This 6) “Inclusive” attitude attracts people from a wide variety of circumstances, particularly those from low socio economic backgrounds, and those considered ‘At-Risk’ to themselves or others. We recognise that we cannot do it alone, so we refer, 7) “Network” and collaborate with many agencies to provide the best possible support for the people we walk alongside. We provide opportunities and training that encourages young people to serve others in various 8) “Leadership” capacities, that inspires a future of hope and makes both their and our world a better and brighter place!
Our History
Our History
In 1988, the leaders of New Brighton Baptist Church saw the need to serve the most vulnerable and needy members of their community. They established “Youth Alive Trust” as a vehicle to serve the young people of the community through programmes, events and their staff and volunteers. The original trust deed dated 27th September 1989 says that the purpose of the trust is to provide a “practical Christian service….in such a manner as to carry with it a good Christian testimony so that those served in any way will experience the worth and concern of Christian love” (quoted from the original trust deed).
Signed by Pastor Grant Brewster and the two other trustees, they employed Andrew Hill as their first community youth worker, who set-up and established the first Holiday Programmes and after school clubs. Through different team leaders, interns and staff, the trust grew and diversified into many different areas. Historic programmes included the Friday Night “Sandpit Drop-In”, Genesis Girls Group, Sublime, B.A.S.E, Trinity Club, Champions Boys Club, 3:15 Club and the massive South, North & Central Holiday Programmes. We’ve had hundreds of volunteers, staff and interns over our 25 years, including Trust Managers Ross Banbury (1995 – 2001), Doug McConnell (2001 – 2005) & James Ridpath (2005 to present). Contact us if you’re part of our Alumni and want to be kept upto date with what’s going on.
In the aftermath of the February 2011 Christchurch Earthquakes, the profile and work of Youth Alive Trust grew even further. They were involved in many post earthquakes programmes, activities and events, which eventually saw them honoured with an Earthquake Award from the Christchurch City Council. It also kick-started plans for the renovation of the building they have been based at since 1991, into a more purpose built Youth & Community Centre. The building work has led to even more programmes, and partnerships with other community organisations to offer wider support for the family. Read about some of the long term impacts of our work through the Amber-Rose Story.
Values
Values
Safety
To provide a place where young people are safe and feel safe - on our programmes, in our building and with our leaders. Safe from bullying, safe from abuse, safe from gangs, safe from negative peer pressure, and safe to be themselves.
Holistic Support
Recognising and supporting all the key areas of growth needed in an individual - socially, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.
Fun
To provide programmes and activities that bring enjoyment, smiles and laughs to everyone involved - young people and volunteers. Laughter is a great medicine and we want to provide programmes that are appealing and create long lasting positive memories.
Encouragement
We provide oodles of positive affirmations, Hi-5's and big smiles that build self esteem and encouragement a 'have a go' attitude. 'Put-downs' and 'shaming' are not acceptable.
Inclusive
We do not discriminate against anyone from being a part of our programmes, whatever race, culture, religion, gender, or behavioural issue. Everyone starts with a clean slate and much grace is offered for those who slip.
Faith
Our values, code of conduct and morals are based on the Christian faith. These are modelled to young people and shared when appropriate. Matt 22 v 37-40 - Love God, Love your Neighbour.
Leadership
Encouraging young people to be positive influences in their home, school and community. We aim to build up new young leaders and feed them back into the programmes that they were once a part of or other community, school or government programmes.
Networking
We aim to integrate ourselves into community life, networking with other community groups, schools, the police and council. We believe we are stronger working together than alone.
Our Team - 2022
Our Team - 2022
Our current employed staff are:
James Ridpath | Trust Manager (Since 2004) |
David Du Preez | Operations Manager (Since 2018) |
Melissa Entwistle | Youthworker (Since 2018) |
Jayden Wall | Youthworker (Since 2020) |
Hannah Donald | Oscar Coordinator (Since 2021) |
Emily Hooper | Volunteer Coordinator (Since 2023) |
Finn Palmer | Youthworker (Since 2020) |
Henry Beeby-Zeier | Youthworker (Since 2021) |
Sam Kinley | Fundraising & Marketing Coordinator (Since 2023) |
Briair Smith | Youthwork Intern (Since 2023) |
Anna Spark | Basketball Coach |
Esther Walters | OSCAR Youthworker (Since 2023) |
Laura Auld | Amplify Coordinator (Since 2023) |
Kim Button | Mana Ake (Since 2020) & YAT Child Protection Officer (Since 2022) |
Rachel Dawson | Mana Ake (Since 2021) & YAT Bi-Lingual Coordinator (Since 2022) |
Johanna Lendnel | Mana Ake (Since 2022) |
Danni Boxall | Mana Ake (Since 2023) |
Jamie McIndoe | Mana Ake Intern (Since 2023) |
Kirsti Ungerer | Administrator (Since 2023) |
Our 2022 Teams are (* denotes Coordinator Positions):
Years 1-3 Kea Holiday Programme
Jayden Wall*, Esther Pickering, Finn Palmer
Years 4 -6 Pukeko Holiday Programme
Shelly Tangiiti*, Melissa Entwistle
Years 7-9 Piwakawaka Holiday Programme
Hannah Donald*, Henry Beeby-Zeier
Intermediate Breakaway Holiday Activities
Melissa Entwistle*, James Ridpath, Henry Beeby-Zeier
Teens Breakaway Holiday Activities
Esther Pickering*, Jayden Wall, Finn Palmer
Primary Schools Youthworkers
Melissa Entwistle, Finn Palmer
Kōtirotiro Girls Clubs
Melissa Entwistle*, Briair Smith, Erin Field, Olivia Greenland, Emma Gray, Jasmine McMath, Lucy Fairweather, Amelia Gibson, Makayla Eveleigh-Lynn
Tamatāne Boys Club
Jayden Wall*, Finn Palmer, Henry Beeby-Zeier, Joel Robinson, Jay Turton, Parata Moke, Jakeb Broadly, Kobie Burrows, Makairi
Rock Solid
Melissa Entwistle*, James Ridpath, Henry Beeby-Zeier, Briair Smith, Nathan Jaeger, Jay Turton, James Fabian, Parata Moke, Morgan Williams, Jeki Chaffardon, Shyla McGreggor, Hayley Everett
Surge
Jayden Wall*, Esther Pickering, Finn Palmer, Briair Smith, Henry Beeby-Zeier, Philip Tuck, Nicole Wang, Jas McEwen-Pittam, Jay Turton
Kitchen Klub
Hannah Donald*, Briair Smith, Henry Beeby-Zeier, Pearl Mann, Irene Leung-Astwood, Lily O'Neil, Georgia Willems, Teia Clark, Makayla Eveleigh-Lynn, Amelia Gibson, Jasmine McMath
Basketball Club
Anna Spark*, Esther Walters, Jeki Chaffardon
Craft Club
Myah Robinson*, Hannah Donald*, Aneisha Polglase, Mia Brumstead, Lily O'Neil, Shyla McGreggor, Makayla Eveleigh-Lynn, Amelia Gibson
Te Tai Pari
Finn Palmer*, Emily Hooper, Beth Reddish
O.S.C.A.R. programme
Hannah Donald*, Henry Beeby-Zeier, Esther Walters
Mana Ake
Kim Button, Rachael Dawson, Johanna Lendnel, Amy de Jong
Counsellors
Sandy Hitchens
Trustees
Andrew Hill, Deborah Swaney, Scott Pickering, Tony Walters, Clark Alcock, Matthew Barlow, Greg Irvine, Kathrine Tarr
Kea
Jayden Wall*, Finn Palmer
Pukeko
Hannah Donald*, Sam Kinley
Piwakawaka
Henry Beeby-Zeier*, Emily Hooper
Newsletters
Newsletters
We send out newsletters periodically to report on what’s been happening at the Trust and what our staff have been up to. If you would like to receive our newsletter, see the signup field at the bottom of the page.
- 2022 Winter Newsletter
- 2021 Winter Newsletter
- 2020 Spring Newsletter
- 2019 Autumn Newsletter View more
- 2017 Spring Newsletter
- 2017 Autumn Newsletter
- 2016 Spring Newsletter
- 2015 Winter Newsletter
- 2014 Spring Newsletter
- 2014 Autumn Newsletter
- 2013 Winter Newsletter
- 2012 Spring Newsletter
- 2012 Staff Newsletter
- 2012 Term 1 Newsletter
- 2011 Winter Newsletter
- Youth Workers in Shirley Boys' High School Term 2 Report 2022
- Youth Workers in Shirley Boys' High School Term 1 Report 2022
- Rawhiti Youthworkers Report 2021
- Shirley Boys Youthworkers 2021 Report View more
- Kids ReSync Term 1 2021 Review
- Breakaway Report 2020-2021
- Youthorkers in Rawhiti Mid Year Report 2020
- Youth Workers in Shirley Boys' High School term 2 Report 2020
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti 2019 Mid Year Report
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti 2018 Mid Year Report
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti 2017 Mid Year Report
- Youthworkers in SNBS 2017 Mid Year Report
- Counselling Report - Belfast 2017
- Counselling Report - New Brighton Catholic 2017
- Counselling Report - Rawhiti 2017
- Youthworkers in Avonside Girls 2016 Term 2
- Youthworkers in SNBS 2016 Mid Year Report
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti 2016 Mid Year Report
- Youthworkers in Avonside Girls 2016 Term 1
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti Term 4 2015 Report
- Youthworkers in Rawhiti School Mid-Year 2015
- Youthworkers in Avonside Term 2 2015
- Youthworkers in South New Brighton School Term 1 & 2 2015
- Library Youthworker Report 2015 Term 1
- Youthworkers in SNBS Term 3 & 4 2014
- Library Youthworker Report 2014 Term 4
- Library Youthworker Report 2014 Term 2
- Youthworkers in NNB Term 2 2014 Report
- Youthworkers in CNB Term 2 2014 Report
- Library Youthworker Report 2014 Term 1
- Avonside Girls Term 1 2014 Report
- Shirley Boys Term 1 2014 Report
- Male Mentor Term 1 Report 2014
- Father Son Camp Report
- Breakaway Report January 2014
- Library Youthworker Report 2013 Term 4
- Music & Youthwork Research Paper - Josiah Dayo
- Male Mentor Term 4 Report 2013
- Breakaway Report December 2013
- Aranui High 24-7 Report Term 3 2013
- Library Youthworker Report 2013 Term 3
- Male Mentor Term 3 Report 2013
- Queenstown Winter Camp Report
- Aranui High 24-7 Report Term 2 2013
- Male Mentor Term 2 Report 2013
- Aranui High 24-7 Report Term 1 2013
- Breakaway Report April 2013
- Male Mentor Term 1 Report 2013
- Library Activities Report January 2013
- Breakaway Report January 2013
- Male Mentor Term 4 Report 2012
- Male Mentor Term 3 Report 2012
- Male Mentor Term 2 Report 2012
- Post Earthquake Activities by Youth Alive Trust 2011
- 2020 YAT Performance Report
- 2019 YAT Performance Report
- 2018 YAT Performance Report
- 2017 YAT Performance Report View more
- 2016 YAT Performance Report
- 2015 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2014 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2013 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2012 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2011 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2010 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2009 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2008 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
- 2007 Youth Alive Trust Annual Report
-
Canterbury Youth Workers Collective
Youth Alive Trust is a member of the Canterbury Youth Workers Collective. We abide by their Code of Ethics, all our staff are individual members and we attend appropriate training throughout the year.
Learn more -
Mana Ake
Mana Ake provides support to children in Canterbury, in years 1-8 at school, promoting wellbeing and positive mental health.
We can support children at school and at home and provide advice, guidance and workshops for parents, whānau and teachers.
Learn more -
Praxis
We often send trainee interns to complete the Praxis course, and team with them on the progression of the staff member.
Learn more -
24-7 Youth Work
24-7 YouthWork is a network of schools youthworkers, based in schools all around the country. We use the 24-7 framework in our partnership with Shirley Boys High School & Avonside Girls High School, and are part of their training and support.
Learn more -
Christchurch City Council
We join with and support local Christchurch City Events by sending our staff and volunteers to events such as I Love Brighton. We sit within the Burwood Pegasus Board Area and attend their locally organised community network meetings and give youth advice and support when asked.
Learn more -
UpstreamNZ
We are an Approved UpstreamNZ Good Cause you can choose to impact when you purchase something or use a service through an Approved UpstreamNZ Supplier.
Learn more -
I Love Brighton
An annual event organised by a few key community groups, including Youth Alive Trust, Christchurch City Council, Rawhiti Community Sports Inc and New Brighton Project
Learn more -
Renew Brighton
We are a part of a collaborative of local community groups that meet regularly to network, share resource and strategising to see Greater Brighton celebrated as a thriving, vibrant, self reliant village. Other agencies include New Brighton Community Gardens, Positive Directions Trust, New Brighton Project, Te Waka Aroha - St Faith's New Brighton.
Learn more -
Canterbury Youth Services
We are a part of the Canterbury Youth Services network and attend training, camps and meetings with other members.
Learn more -
Charities Commission
We are registered with the Charities Commission of New Zealand, as advised by the IRD, grant making bodies and the government.
Learn more -
EPIC Events
We run joint EPIC Events with a number of other local youth agencies, with the support of Blue Light Canterbury, including Dance Parties and Sk8 Disco's.
Learn more
Misc Reports
Misc Reports
Keep updated with all our latest Reports from the different areas of Youth Alive Trust
Annual Reports
Annual Reports
Youth Alive Trust is a registered charity and submits financial reports to the Charities Commission each year. View our audited accounts at the Charities Commission register.
Networks
Networks
As a community organisation we value the support of a number of other agencies, partners and networks. These are our friends: