Testimonials

Read the personal stories of some of our partners and the young people and their families who we've helped get back on track.

Steven - 19 years old

At age 17 Steven was involved in a serious assault. On the front page of a local paper, the next 2 years of his life were on hold, seemingly destined for failure.

"StreetWork in my eyes are doing excellent work within the 'street youth' scene. I witnessed first hand the way this organisation is helping today's youth. I grew up in a Christian family but found myself at a point where I was hanging with the wrong people and beginning to head down the wrong track."

Steven is now managing a restaurant 6 days a week, having completed his second course at TAFE. He lives at home and he has had no trouble since being involved with StreetWork.

Justin - 19 years old

On the streets from an early age, having struggled with homelessness and drug issues, Justin was in a downward spiral.

"StreetWork has helped with many problems from housing to legal difficulties to personal emotional issues... they've made a huge impact on my life and the lives of other youths in the North Shore area."

Scott - 18 years old

Faced with challenging family problems from the age of 14, Scott developed poor social skills.

"When I was off track and had no direction, StreetWork helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate what you do for the kids who run the streets and have no path to walk on. You are messengers from the man upstairs. Thank you."

Working and driving his own car, Scott has stabilised and gained a lot from the mentoring program.

Jen - 17 years old

"In my opinion mentoring has helped me through schooling and everyday problems. My mentor is very caring and helpful and I really appreciate her helping me."

Lucy - parent of 15 year old

"Our son has been going through a very difficult period over the last two years. He's been truanting and eventually dropped out of school. He had been using drugs, had problems with the police and run away from home for extended periods of time.

Through this difficult time he got to know the people from StreetWork and we became aware of what a fantastic job they are doing. Our son has benefited greatly from the support and generosity of spirit he's received.

He's made great progress the last couple of months. He now tends to stay away from trouble and is again becoming part of our family. There's still a long way to go before he becomes a functioning member of society, but we're really happy with the progress so far and believe that he's on the right track.

As parents, it's of great comfort to us to know that there's someone out there prepared to help our son when all other options have failed and when he refuses to be in contact with home. Thank you for your support."

Lisa - parent of 17 year old

"Thanks for all that you’re doing for my son. He really loves the kickboxing and has truly turned around. After all these years (4) I was wondering what would be the turning point and I believe this may have been that turning point. He’s running and training everyday and, as we discussed the other day, he would love to travel to Thailand and explore some of the foods etc. He’s cooked two nights in a row so I don't know what magic potion you have given him but thanks a million."

Brian Revett - Manager of TAFE Northern Sydney Institute

"TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute, Outreach has enjoyed an effective partnership with Streetwork through working together to enable access to further education for disengaged youth.."