RiverTracks helps young people find stability, reconnect with education and step into work and community life. Our programs deliver real, measurable outcomes – reducing youth crime, improving school re-engagement and helping young people step into employment or training. Read below what young people, parents and carers have to say about RiverTracks programs.
What young people from our programs say:
“Since joining Big Picture, I’ve had many unique experiences, many of which have been outside the classroom. One of the most impactful aspects of the program has been the opportunity to take part in internships. During my time with RiverTracks, we completed several projects, one of the most memorable being the construction of a work shed at my friend’s house.”
– Billy, Big Picture program
“I started RiverTracks with a terrible job, failing TAFE, a terrible relationship with my father, fresh out of a mental hospital and no will to live or have a life of my own. I am now 18 and work as an AIN in aged care, I love my job and I’m really good at it. I have my own car, I am now doing youth work, I have a social life, I’m studying and I’m planning my future.”
– Gemma, Get on Track program
What parents and carers say:
“My 13-year-old middle child is currently attending RiverTracks and I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact the program has had on him.
The youth workers at RiverTracks have helped my son foster a sense of belonging and rebuild his confidence. He has started to develop resilience, teamwork and leadership skills, which I directly attribute to his attendance at RiverTracks.”– Jade Juleff, Murwillumbah
“My son has attended the RiverTracks program for the last year due to not excelling in school and having trouble with the school program. My son has since become a mature respectable young gentleman who has grown tremendously with the guidance from the youth workers.
They have given him work opportunities, guided him and supported him in many different areas of his life. My son is the kid he is today because of the help that RiverTracks have provided us.”– Grace Johnson, Northern Rivers
“As parents with a young person attending RiverTracks we absolutely appreciate the support, understanding and care for the young people that attend the program. Our son is 16 and struggles immensely with traditional schooling.
The program has been invaluable and we can’t speak highly enough of the staff. Our son has a sense of belonging at RiverTracks, he feels safe, not judged and therefore is able to learn.”– Monique Moffat-Croft & Khan Croft, Northern Rivers
Our community impact:
“The RiverTracks team and group of young people have been attending the Murwillumbah Community Garden over the last 2-3 months.
We have enjoyed having them visit the garden and their volunteering work has been greatly appreciated.
The collaboration has been a wonderful experience for the garden team in introducing young people to aspects of food production and basic gardening practices.”– Pamela O’Connor, President, Murwillumbah Community Garden