Innovation Youth Centre acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the land on which we operate, Diversity and inclusivity are important to (IYC) regardless of race, disability, religion, gender identity, or sexuality. (IYC) is a not-for-profit organisation in Melbourne’s North that services young people between 12 to 25 years of age. IYC was established in 2016 and became fully operational in July 2022 with the opening of its youth centre in Bundoora. In 2022, IYC received a federal grant to implement early intervention crime prevention programs with young people. Our programs seek to address contributing factors that may lead young people to engage in crime by offering them tailored programs that aim to build their resilience, capabilities, and confidence.

 

IYC’s point of difference is that it provides an organic service not limited by financial overheads and is a home away from home. Through this model, IYC can offer flexible interventions to meet the needs of the young people as well as families, stakeholders, partners, and the community. Through its Youth Support, Youth Development and Youth Programs portfolios, IYC provides a range of services that aim to build young people’s resilience, capabilities and confidence. Services include individual case management, personal development programs and after-school drop-ins. 

 

Through these, IYC supports young people to address life challenges including social disadvantage, homelessness, unemployment, leaving school, mental health, family and social relationships, crime, substance use, school disengagement and disability. Using a strength-based practice approach with service users.

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IYC’s service is centred on innovation, youth participation and social entrepreneurship. To best serve the community, IYC works closely with its youth reference group to identify and address service gaps in its local area. In this way, young people hold a vital role in contributing to the design and implementation of IYC programs.