Doonan will soon have a new short-stay, early-intervention camp aimed at combating youth crime.
It’s part of the state government’s $50million Regional Reset program, which will operate in nine locations across Queensland, including the Sunshine Coast.
The Ted Noffs Foundation will deliver the program, which will provide up to 15 weeks of support for at-risk youth, aged 8-17 who are showing early signs of disengagement, antisocial or criminal behaviour.
Participants will take part in an intensive one-to-three-week ‘reset’ at the live-in facility in Doonan, where they will receive 24/7 support and supervision, with the option of a parent or guardian joining the camp.
During the camp, youths will take part in a range of activities to develop their emotional, social and physical wellbeing, including life and employment skills training, mentoring, education, family counselling sessions, cultural engagement and sporting activities.
After the camp, youths and their families will receive up to six weeks of follow-up support to help embed positive behaviours.
Foundation CEO Matt Noffs says the organisation has a proven track record when it comes to reducing youth crime in the community.
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton says early intervention programs are crucial to making the region safer.
“We need to intervene early to give young people the best chance in life and help them find a path toward education, vocation or a job, rather than a life of crime.”
