Our youth support project works intensively with clients and families who have complex needs.  We believe the following definition accurately describes the work that we do:

"... to help young people make sense of the personal, social and political issues which affect their lives, to promote their self-awareness, confidence and competence, to support the development of independent judgment and to advocate with and for young people, the extension of opportunities and the choices available to them"

(Concepts and methods of Youth Work, Rob White, 1992, pp. 2-3).

The Mountains Youth Support Service was developed out of the Springwood Youth Support Service and a project called the Upper Mountains Early Intervention Project

This Service provides:

1. *Support and brokerage for young people suffering from homelessness, 
   

  poverty, distress, helplessness and misfortune

* Court support

* Family engagement work

* Respite and personal development camps

* Personal development programs in schools

* Year 6 transitioning to high school program

* Programs for young offenders & young people using drugs or alcohol

* Works closely with the Aboriginal Cultural and Resource Centre

* Is a referral service for young people.

This project employs two Youth Support Officers, Jim and Maggie, who work with young people throughout the Mountains.