For those who would like to lead a Passages Program in their local community it is essential that the Mates & Mentors program and a Mentor Training weekend is completed. All participants whether Mentors, Parents, Guardians or Student Helpers all require a Blue Card declaring their suitability to participate in working with children and youth.
"I congratulate the organizers for their vision, enthusiasm, effort and time, firstly in initiating the program, running the weekend camp, and in wrapping it up with a superbly presented video account of the entire program. This is an excellent program for boys, with mentors like these, the lads are well and truly on the right track. I believe my son finds it easier to interact with kids his own age, and has gained in confidence as well as being more communicative since completing the program. Well done Craig, Trevor, John and others.." Lloyd Wardrop
"Although the program is in its early stages, my son, has enjoyed attending. He has shown positive benefits from it, in that he is mixing with boys of his own age. My son has a quiet personality and the weekly meetings are greatly assisting him. The camp away was really good for him. I sincerely hope that the course continues into the coming years."
"I played an active role as a Parent and Mentor over the duration of the program. The boys visibly changed from harassing each other to being very team oriented. With the teaching and values that are instilled into each boy, their leadership and team working qualities came to the fore. The boys were challenged on several occasions and came through every time because of the way the program is designed to give them the confidence they will need to be future leaders in their chosen fields and within the community. Education is a very important vehicle that will help them later in life. I believe this program will teach them the skills that will enable them to drive that vehicle and achieve their goals with confidence and to see the importance of contributing to their community as a leader. We are sowing into their futures the values that will guide them through life in a relevant way to them so they understand and most importantly they're having heaps of fun learning and participating in the activities." Russell Rowe
"When I first heard of the Passages Program I jumped at the opportunity for my son to be involved. James loved every minute of it and was always full of stories Friday afternoons. After watching the footage of term 1, I can't wait to see what term 2 unfolds and and how the boys continue to bond with each other and their mentors. What an amazing group of men. I feel so fortunate to have a program like this available and privileged that my son has the opportunity to be involved. My youngest son is chafing at the bit to do Passages to. Keep up the good work guys and thank you, you are true angels." Mandi Ilott
"Tyron is learning to participate with other children that he would not normally have a lot to do with. This is very similar to what he will be confronted with when he joins the work force. Tyron is a hands on person ( like most boys) and learns by doing the task, not by being told how to do it (as theory), and this program is catering well for him. The fact that the boys all wanted to know what they would be doing next term is a testament that they are enjoying the Program. " Barry Schefe
"I had a lot of fun with all the members of the group doing various activities each week, especially the camp. It was really great getting along with the other boys and having fun. I reckon that Craig, Trevor, John and the others were excellent and made the whole program a lot of fun. I would like to do it again and I think it will be even better since I already know a lot of the fellas. Every fella my age would really enjoy it. The camp was the greatest fun" Chris Wardrop
"We learnt teamwork skills and I had a lot of fun and a thrill of being away from my parents for a week. It's a better thing to do on Friday afternoons than watching T.V."
"I had a great time, I learnt about teamwork, gained some friends and gained confidence. I enjoyed learning about knights , how to catch pipies, as well as making shield straps. I learnt many other things. I thought it was great." Ivan Kameta
"I now know what it means to have blokes around, and no matter what, you have to make friends with people you may dislike."
Support for this program to continue successfully requires support from all areas within a community. This includes Federal, State and Local levels of Government, Multi National and Local businesses as well as the continued support from families, Mentors and others.
Financial support through monetary contributions will also help the program expansion into other community groups.
