Founded in 1995 with a vision to improve New Zealand’s negative youth statistics, the Graeme Dingle Foundation has supported the growth of over 300,000 resilient young Kiwis in that time, giving them the tools to chart their own futures and not live a life dictated by circumstance.
In Canterbury alone we have been delivering youth development programmes across region for 21 years. Over the years we have continued to deliver positive outcomes for our young people that work towards our ultimate goal of helping young people to overcome life obstacles through our programmes;
Kiwi Can, Stars Teina, Stars and Project K to
24 schools across the region, reaching
over 3,800 young people every week.
We believe it is important that we not only do good, but we can prove the difference we make. Our programmes all transform lives and are informed by best practice research. With our University research partners, we know our programmes:
- Improve attitudes and behaviour
- Improve academic outcomes
- Help young people set and achieve goals
- Greater self-confidence, resilience and wellbeing
- Reduce truancy rates and risky behaviours, such as substance
- Young people are more positive about the future
Our research has shown that young people respond to stressful events, such as the pandemic, with decreased confidence and motivation and increased anxiety and disengagement. Our findings show our positive youth development programmes can make a material difference to young people and turn their lives around.
‘In this small and beautiful country with so many caring people we can make a positive impact on the lives of our young people, the future and economy of this country. Community, Business and Government all have their part to play and working together is crucial’
Sir Graeme Dingle
‘The people I have met and the lessons I have learnt along the way will be with me always. This journey is truly life changing, something I wish all children has the opportunity to participate in’
Project K graduate
