Adventure Therapy engages vulnerable youth across the Central Coast

Delhuntie Youth Care mobile Pinnacle Program is a 5-part youth suicide and resilience program that challenges at risk youth with adventure therapy, aiming to promote team building, motivation, personal development, health and wellbeing.

After receiving a grant of $50 000 from the Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network, through the NSW Ministry of Health Flood Relief package, Delhuntie (alongside the C4 Community Church) facilitated 10 programs in the flood effected areas of the Central Coast. Run across April and May 2023, the aim of the program was to engage with vulnerable youth to help them reconnect with community, improving their mental health and building on their self-esteem.

Delhuntie Manager Rob Kent, said the program has been very successful in restoring the confidence of the young participants. “One young lady, who was 12 years old, had no contact with the outside world, besides her immediate family, since the first covid lock down. She had a lack of support and no self-worth. Slowly, she engaged with each of the different activities, attending 5 of the 10 programs. The program significantly improved her self-esteem.

“We have received an overwhelmingly positive response from the programs. Most youth and adults who participated couldn’t believe how quickly our unique program could turn their lives around.”

Following the program, participants reported improvements in physical and mental health as well as a greater connection to themselves, higher self-worth and more resilient attitudes. For some the outcome was a greater connection to community, especially after lock downs.

The programs were promoted through social media, local schools, indigenous organisations, the police, Salvation Army and PCYC. The C4 Community Church, provided the facility, catering and daily volunteers. They also provided pastoral care and support networks for participants who requested further support.

Many schools and community groups have requested additional programs, for which Delhuntie are sourcing funding.

Well done to Delhuntie Youth Care on the success of their mobile Pinnacle Program.