Streetwork’s Youth mentoring history

founded in 1980 by peter hobbs, oam, StreetWork is a community funded and based, NOT FOR PROFIT

Founded in 1980 by Peter Hobbs, OAM, Streetwork’s early intervention and prevention program has turned young lives around for over 40+ years.

Peter's belief that youth mentors should be accessible to young people is still relevant today. Our trained youth case workers meet young people in parks and cafes, outside - in the street – rather than an office. That's why we are called 'Streetwork.'

“When I started Streetwork I witnessed a gap in services to youth-at-risk who, in increasing numbers were ending up homeless, addicted, or committing youth crime and sentenced to time in juvenile detention or in prison. What was needed was support - on the ground - when young people first showed signs of disconnection” explains Peter.

Forty years after its launch, Streetwork has grown and now serves the Northern Sydney Region. Because community connections are important to our success, Streetwork is supported by local boards with deep links into local businesses, clubs, banks, churches, and volunteers - who care about improving the physical and mental well-being of vulnerable young people.