Mission Australia today launched its innovative Youth Beat program, a mobile after hours outreach van providing support, referrals and information to the young people of Glenorchy.

Mission Australia State Director Noel Mundy said Mission Australia hopes the Youth Beat program will engage and assist young people within the local community.

“The service will be provided free-of-charge and will include a private interview space for brief intervention counselling, information and referral,” Mr Mundy said.

“The Youth Beat program will be operated by two youth workers who will provide an after hours service on Friday and Saturday evenings as well as during the day on weekends. Follow up referrals will then occur on Monday’s and Tuesdays.”

Mr Mundy said through activity based engagement Mission Australia hopes to link young people to family, education, community and recreation within Glenorchy.

“This project will not only strengthen family relationships by supporting families to care and take responsibility for their children but also reduce anti-social activities to provide community and social benefit,” he said.

“By providing an after hours point of contact, it is also hoped young people’s safety at night will improve.

“This will be achieved by developing and supervising weekend activities to increase safety and potentially decrease crime.”

An arts competition was recently held to encourage young people in the south of the state to design the look of the Youth Beat van.

The van was unveiled at the launch of the program today revealing bright and inspiring artwork by competition winners Cyron Prouse and Jade Lowe.

The van’s design is based around the spray painting of a heart and wings graphic which signify that there is love and hope to give – which is exactly what Youth Beat hopes to achieve.

Mission Australia helps disadvantaged Tasmanians regain their lives and independence by providing employment and training as well as offering youth initiatives to inspire disadvantaged young people.

For more information: Lucinda Bray, Beyond PR 0438 280 486