We were treated to an inspiring talk by Richard Elvey on Kahu Youth activities here in Wanaka.

Richard hails from the heart of the East End of London and obviously has always had a passion for working with young people. Whilst his degree at university was in theatre design his leaning was towards helping young people, particularly those troubled young men in the greater London area, visiting care homes and Secure Units as a Youth Advocate. He changed career and became a special needs assistant in secondary schools as well as continuing his work in care homes.

Richard began work here in Wanaka for Kahu Youth part time in 2007 gradually increasing his hours and professional qualifications until becoming full time in 2009.

He obviously has an immense passion for his work and proud of what has been achieved here in Wanaka with Kahu Youth.

Kahu Youth provides programmes, activities, events, and a fun, safe base for young people from 11 to 24. It is a charitable trust that has to fund raise funds for most of its operational needs of approx. $175,000 pa. – no small challenge!

It seems that Richards “job”, tho this perhaps should be passion, keeps him occupied 24/7 for most of the year, in fact his wife complains she doesn’t see enough of him!

Kahu Youth are currently running Adventure Clubs for 11-13yo; Pop-Up workshops in sewing, making trolley carts etc; Youth vs Wild programme teaching about the outdoors; Blue Moon Disco events fun without drinking dance nights; Kids Club; Drop In on Friday and Sat nights, to keep kids occupied instead of getting into idle mischief; Holiday Programmes; Community Events such as the Cardboard boat race on the lake; Taking over Amigos to raise funds – we helped boost income from $1750 to $3250 when we attended as a meeting; A&P Show – Youth Base; Matariki Celebrations. – Wow the list goes on……

Kahu Youth is obviously a great programme, providing youth with an alternative to just hanging about getting into trouble, it teaches them leadership, a way to a better life by developing skills, helps with social interaction, interaction with the public through events and programme, many of the ideas and events are led by themselves.

With Richard’s enthusiasm and professionalism it is easy to see why the programme is so successful here in our community. Thank you Richard and your team at Kahu Youth.