By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
Tackling youth crime, such as the headlined Apex Gang, is not just a matter of using blunt strategies, a youth social-enterprise leader has said.
TRY Australia chief executive Julia Cambage is firmly of the philosophy that no one gets on the right track on their own.
She is leading a $50,000 state-funded Breaking the Cycle project in Doveton that will take about 30 disadvantaged men, aged 18-20 and at risk of falling into crime, under its wing.
Volunteer mentors will boost the young people’s self-esteem and resilience through weekly activities such as sport and recreation.
Along the way, the young people are guided towards training and employment as well as being given lifestyle and wellbeing skills.
“In some cases, it may be the first time in their lives they have a relationship with an adult that’s a positive one,” Ms Cambage said.
“We bring them back into the community and help them be the best human beings they can be.”
She explains the phenomenon of wrong-headed gangs in terms of kids wanting attention.
“Humans want to be wanted and valued. If you’re valued by your peers for doing the wrong thing, that’s what you’ll do for attention.”
TRY Australia was founded on the principles of giving disadvantaged people a go and valuing them for doing the right thing, she said.
It’s not a soft touch, she emphasises.
“If you give young people an opportunity to try, you’ll be amazed what they can achieve.
“Our 130 years of experience tells us this will work.”
The State Government has also provided $150,000 towards a Connections project for 40 young people from Maori and Pacific Islander backgrounds.
Led by Jesuit Social Services, the program includes workshops, positive role modelling and outdoor therapy.
The two initiatives are part of a state $2.2-million program targeting the underlying causes of youth crime.
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the projects tackled crime prevention at a local level.
“These will go a long way in helping shape a better future for young people in Doveton.”
