PCYC NSW’s youth program ‘Fit for Life’ is an early intervention initiative designed to foster positive lifestyle habits and prevent antisocial behaviour in young people aged 10 to 16.
PCYC Mudgee is one of the 66 clubs offering Fit for Life, wherein participants get breakfast, mentorship, sporting activities and transport to school on Wednesday mornings.
“Between PCYC staff and NSW Police youth engagement officers, there’s always someone available to support, encourage and empower our young people,” said club manager Alana Morris.
Long-time participant Joshua Smith was 10 years old when he got involved in the program. The now 18-year-old is still actively involved in PCYC Mudgee. For years, he’s been choosing the club on Market Street as a safe hangout space to meet friends and learn new things.
“The support from the PCYC community, paired with the fitness you get from activities like basketball and football, is life-changing,” said Joshua. “I’ll have a connection to PCYC for the rest of my life.”
In 2023, the Mudgee local decided to put his hand up as a volunteer, helping facilitate Safer Drivers Courses and a range of sports and recreation.
“Josh has had such a positive impact on PCYC that I decided to employ him as a casual activities officer – his dedication and drive will give him the opportunity to progress as a senior activities officer in the future,” said Morris.
The eldest Smith sibling, Brendon, 20, first sparked the connection to PCYC, which now runs in the family. Joshua’s younger brother Jordan, 16, has also grown up attending youth programs and is following in his footsteps, helping around the club.
“I was misbehaving when I first joined PCYC, and the youth programs changed my whole life around; it’s changed my actions and helped me develop leadership skills and confidence in life,” said Jordan.
The two youngest siblings, Hudson and April, are also involved in Fit for Life. The Smiths are just one of thousands of families across NSW whose lives have been positively impacted by PCYC throughout generations.
Read also: PCYC NSW and Wilson Security partner to boost youth employment
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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