A Testament to Family and Support for At-Risk Youth
Street Peace is proud to announce the results of the Street Peace Youth Survey, conducted in March and April 2024. The survey engaged 42 youths at ‘The Nest’, Street Peace’s at-risk youth mentor drop-in centre in Frankston. The findings highlight the crucial role Street Peace plays in supporting at-risk youth, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting positive life changes.
The survey, conducted over four sessions in March and April, aimed to understand why youths participate in Street Peace programs and the impact these programs have on their lives.
Key Findings:
- Sense of Family and Belonging: 69% of respondents said that Street Peace feels a lot or exactly like family, and the same percentage expressed a strong sense of belonging.
- Improved Well-being and Relationships:
- Despite facing significant mental health challenges—55% experience anxiety or stress, and 50% feel sadness or depression a few times a week or daily—the program supports 70% to remain hopeful or very hopeful about their future, with an additional 23% feeling a bit hopeful.
- 40% of youths noted improvements in their well-being and relationships with friends and family, while 36% highlighted enhancements in their mental health.
- Positive Life Changes: 30% of participants credited Street Peace with helping them get off the wrong path and lead an honest life. Additionally, 16% became more engaged with their education due to the support they received.
- Long-term Engagement: 58% have been attending The Nest for 1 to 2+ years, showing sustained commitment to the program.
- School Attendance: Half of the surveyed youths are enrolled in school either part-time or full-time.
Impact Over the Last Year:
Street Peace has made remarkable strides in reaching and supporting at-risk youth. Over the past year alone:
- 200 new youth visited The Nest youth drop-in centre.
- There were 2,900 youth connections facilitated by our programs.
- On average, 50 youth attend The Nest regularly.
- In this recent survey of 42 youth, the majority reported that despite daily stress and anxiety, they remain hopeful or very hopeful for their future.
A Message from Street Peace Founder, Jay Shelling:
“The results of The Nest Youth Survey highlight the deep, positive impact that Street Peace has on the lives of at-risk youth. Our goal has always been to create a supportive, family-like environment where these young individuals can find hope, love, and the strength to make positive changes in their lives. Seeing the tangible improvements in their well-being, relationships, and outlook on life is incredibly rewarding and drives us to continue our mission with even greater passion.”
Street Peace remains steadfast in its commitment to relentlessly pursuing at-risk youth, addressing trauma, encouraging hope, and driving transformative change. The organization’s dedication to building strong mentoring relationships and providing growth opportunities is making a significant difference in the lives of many young individuals in the Frankston community.
Help Street Peace continue their important work with at-risk youth! Donate to the EOFY fundraiser.