The Freestyle Fix event, a new mental health initiative supported by Armidale Dumaresq Council, was held at the Armidale Skate Park on Saturday, during Youth Week which runs from April 13 -22.
A new BMX bike and a host of other prizes were up for grabs during the event, which was organised by Eastern Access Community Health (EACH). EACH is a Victorian based organisation that has branched out in NSW within the last five years. In Armidale EACH runs the Youth Connections Program, ReConnect, Youth Leadership, SAP House and a community support program. EACH is a not for profit organisation that works mostly with youth and families.
“Here today, we represent Youth Connections which helps young people at risk of disengaging from their education,” said Rochelle Roberts, Team Leader Youth Connections Armidale.
“We help kids overcome personal barriers and help them complete year 12 or transition to TAFE or employment.”
The Youth Leadership Program run by EACH helps identify young leaders in the area to run youth programs in the community.
“One of the most common barriers that young people face here that does impact their engagement at school, is mental health issues,” said Rochelle.
“We provide case management to kids, and once they are ready to identify and address any kind of mental health issue, we work with them to refer them on to councilors or psychologists.
“Also we are about prevention and promoting well being, so a lot of what has been organised today is about promoting exercise and healthy eating for families and young people. Without that, their motivation and ability to be inspired is compromised.”
One of the organisers of the Free Style Fix, Charlie Winter, sees the event as an opportunity for kids to have a bit of fun and learn about the services that are available to them.
“Today is a chance to rub shoulders with local kids,” said Charlie Winter EACH Youth Leadership Coordinator.
“We had the Devils Pinch Rural Fire Service come along and give some hands on demonstrations, we have drug and alcohol prevention information from Community Health; the Armidale Homeless Shelter is also here and we have had a bike tyre pumping competition with amazing prizes.”
First place, which was donated by Armidale Dumaresq Council, was a BMX bike with a helmet and locks, second, third and fourth prizes were donated by Community Mutual who will set up $150 bank accounts and fifth prize is a breakfast for four people at the Goldfish Bowl.
EACH has a Facebook page, or you can drop into their office at 220 Rusden Street, Armidale for more information. If you would like to be part of the EACH program you can contact 6771 3638.
Story: Jo Harrison
