At risk youths, on 7NEWS we have chronicled numerous half-hearted and even some genuine attempts at helping them.
We do so because yes while they might not all work, there is nothing wrong in trying. And that's what the Youth for Future secretariat is doing with its mission operation positive re-enforcement or 'OPR.' Actually you can call it whatever you like but over 200 young men and women say it's been the way to a job and a better life.
The program was launched in February and it's aim is to give these youths who have seen their share of letdowns and turndown the opportunity to turn a new leaf with job training and communication skills. Heading the operation is youth advocate Douglas Hyde.
Douglas Hyde, Youth for the Future
"We recognize that their experience on 'the base' is one of the issues that affect the way our young people talk, the way they dress, and the way they act. This training is to sharpen some of those areas, to enlighten them."
Alistair Barrow, Participant
"I learnt a lot of positive things. It's been a positive experience for me. I have a learnt a lot and how to deal with the outside world."
Frank Thomas, Participant
"We've been taught how to behave and perform on the job site."
Douglas Hyde,
"The training is based on three areas, communication, job preparedness, and personal development. One of the crucial things we are trying to do is find jobs for these young people. Most places say they want to hire them but because of their character or background they defer from doing so. This training addresses that."
40 youths are in training currently and since their launch Hyde says they have found jobs for 26 youths. Youths interested in joining can drop by the Youth for the Future Secretariat near the BelChina Bridge. The training is free and the organizers say the only thing you can lose is an attitude.