The Reach Foundation

 

Our national school and community-based programs are run for young people and designed to promote their mental health and wellbeing. All our programs are run by the young Reach Crew, so there’s no preaching – just young people inspiring young people to believe that, no matter what their circumstances, they can achieve.

 

Reach creates safe and supportive spaces where teenagers can share stories and experiences honestly. A place where they can increase their self-belief, discover who they are and recognise that they’re not alone.

 

Our Programs

Each year, Reach’s preventative programs are run for over 60,000 young Australians, in over 580 metropolitan and regional schools and communities across the country.

 

Our participants are young people aged 10-18, both in and outside of the school system. Anyone who wants to improve their self confidence and get more from life is welcome at Reach. Reach also works with teachers and youth professionals through our specialised teacher training, which offers techniques for teachers to effectively engage with and support their students.

 

All our programs are delivered by the inspiring Reach Crew (aged 15-25 years), who are experienced in effectively engaging participants and supporting them to improve self-belief, and to develop resilience and emotional awareness. It’s been shown that developing these skills in adolescence can reduce serious problems faced later in life including depression, substance abuse, homelessness and suicide.

 

Where It All Began

Reach was established in 1994 by Jim Stynes OAM (AFL Brownlow Medalist, youth motivator, and Victorian of the Year 2003) and Australian film director, Paul Currie. Jim and Paul were two young men who recognised that too often the greatness in young people is hidden behind fear, anger or hurt. Reach was born from a desire to inspire every young person to believe in themselves and get the most out of life.