OUR PROGRAMS

Youth Mental Health Program (Ages 13-17)

Key Features of the Program:

• Culturally Safe & Age-Appropriate Activities:
  Activities take place on Friday and/or Saturday evenings, running until approximately 10:30 pm. Locations across various Police Districts provide a safe space for youth to engage after school hours. Activities include sports, arts, and discussion-based workshops that encourage self-expression, team-building, and personal growth.

• Mentorship and Community Engagement:
  We engage local African mentors and role models who can connect with the youth, offering guidance, support, and lived experiences that resonate. These mentors help youth understand cultural issues, conflict resolution, and the importance of making positive choices.

• Educational Topics:
  Through non-traditional delivery methods like informal chats with mentors, youth will learn about:

  • Positive Conflict Resolution: How to resolve disputes respectfully and without violence.

  • Laws, Legalities, and Weapons: Understanding the legal consequences of carrying weapons and other offenses.

  • Healing from Trauma: Addressing trauma, emotional wounds, and understanding how to heal from generational or individual trauma.

• Support and Safety:
  Safe transport home after activities, ensuring the wellbeing of participants. Meals are provided to ensure full participation.

Locations for Activities:

• Midland Police District (Ellenbrook Sub-District)

• Cannington Police District (Cannington Leisureplex)

• Armadale Police District (Gosnells Sub-District)

• Mirrabooka Police District (TBC)

• Joondalup Police District (TBC)

Parenting Programs: MenUp for Men & SheLeads for Women

Overview:
We understand that African parents face unique challenges in raising children in a new cultural environment. Our MenUp for Men and SheLeads for Women programs are designed to empower African parents with the skills and knowledge to foster positive behavior in their children while maintaining cultural integrity.

Program Highlights:

• MenUp for Men:
  MenUp is a culturally sensitive program for African fathers, focusing on positive role modeling, communication skills, and conflict resolution. It helps men understand their role in the family and community while equipping them with the tools to raise emotionally healthy children.

• SheLeads for Women:
  SheLeads supports African mothers, offering resources and education on understanding adolescent behavior, effective communication with children, and nurturing healthy family dynamics. This program emphasizes cultural understanding, emotional resilience, and strategies to handle parenting stress in an Australian context.

• Gender-Sensitive Approach:
  Each program is delivered by professionals who respect and understand the gender and cultural needs of participants, creating a safe space for learning and development.

• Workshops and Mentoring:
  Parents will attend workshops that help them navigate cultural differences in parenting, learn practical techniques for managing stress, and gain insights into the Australian education and legal system. Mentoring from experienced African community leaders also plays a key role in supporting parents.

How We Work

Culturally Safe and Appropriate Services:
All of our programs are designed with the African community in mind, ensuring that every activity, discussion, and resource is culturally sensitive and relevant. We acknowledge the importance of understanding and respecting cultural values while adapting to the challenges that young people and families face in Australia.

Age-Appropriate Support:
We offer age-appropriate engagement for youth aged 13-17, with content tailored to their developmental needs. Our programs are designed to resonate with African youth and help them understand the issues affecting their lives while offering safe spaces to discuss them.

Gender-Sensitive Approach:
We recognize the importance of gender in the African community and deliver programs that meet the specific needs of young men and women. For instance, MenUp for Men and SheLeads for Women ensure that parents receive the guidance and support most appropriate for their gender and cultural background.

Community-Driven Mentorship:
We actively engage with the local African community, involving cultural mentors and role models who share lived experiences. This mentorship creates a sense of belonging and encourages youth to actively participate in their communities.

Desired Outcomes

For WA Police Force:

• Reduction in Youth Offending/Reoffending:
  By providing positive role models and educational activities, we aim to reduce youth involvement in criminal activities.

• Improved Community Safety:
  Our programs help create a safer environment by fostering understanding between youth and local law enforcement.

• Increased Positive Youth Engagement:
  Activities that promote conflict resolution, understanding of laws, and positive behavior lead to fewer incidents of antisocial behavior in the community.

For Service Providers:

• Parental Support:
  Ensuring that parents are actively involved in their children’s development and are equipped with the skills to handle challenges in their parenting journey.

• Youth Participation and Behavioral Change:
  We aim to see active participation from youth and a marked improvement in their understanding of key topics like conflict resolution and trauma recovery.

• Stronger Family and Community Connection:
  By involving families and the community, we ensure that young people feel a sense of belonging and are connected to their cultural roots.