SERVICE MESSAGE - IYC Young People, Families, Staff, Volunteers, Board, Student Placements and Community would like to give a big warm thank you to all who support IYC, not close the centre doors. It's with a heavy heart that IYC informs you that IYC closed its centre doors on March 1st 2024 at the location in Bundoora due to not being refunded by the government, IYC acknowledges and is grateful for the Federal Government grant to grow IYC with the centre in 2022. IYC campaigned to all tiers of government, did a fundraiser with events, went to media, had a petition, tried auspices and unfortunately could not raise enough funds to keep the centre operational. IYC will not close as a charity/service organisation and reflect to provide NDIS services, consulting work, information and referral, and program work that will be done on a smaller scale until IYC grows again and can do more and run a centre again. As the motto goes at IYC
"Believe and Create"
ABOUT
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WHY IYC?
OUR HISTORY
IYC was born from a desire to create meaningful change in the lives of young people. IYC’s journey began in 2016 when Director and Founder Paul Papadatos had the vision to establish a youth space in Melbourne’s Northern suburbs to reach marginalised young people, using the theory of innovation and youth participation working hand in hand. IYC’s team is propelled by a passion to develop innovative programs in our local community that are responsive to the needs of all young people.
In 2022, IYC received a federal grant to implement early intervention crime prevention programs for young people aged 12 to 25. This grant has enabled IYC to bring Paul's vision to reality with the establishment of a youth service in Melbourne’s North.
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WHY IYC?
WHY IYC?
It's an organic service for young people and community, that creates positive measurable social change.
RATIONALE
Melbourne’s outer northern suburbs are growing rapidly due to the relatively affordable housing in the region. Without the commensurate growth in services, the increasing youth population (12 to 25) experiences a higher-than-average number of issues, manifesting in a rise in youth crime, drug and alcohol abuse, and other antisocial behaviors.
Our conveniently located youth center addresses the service gaps. By fostering youth participation and innovation, our young people a empowered to create their own resources and help their local community. IYC’s zones of operation are interface and rural council areas, It is envisaged that the IYC model will be rolled out to other municipalities.
DESCRIPTION
IYC would act as the project coordinator and lead agency, it is proposed that a collaborative management & staffing structure be developed that includes partner agencies taking responsibility for key service outcomes and management.
These agencies would be on a part-time, sessional or project basis, and would cover issues identified in the research, including health, employment and community education. Research has identified significant support for young people to be involved in running a youth centre by way of a peer reference group and student work placements.
