THE LIVEWELL Hervey Bay podcast recently sat down with Maddie Payne, a dedicated Youth Program Officer from our local PCYC.

The focus of the conversation was on the various youth programs and opportunities that are being offered in our community, aiming to address the needs and challenges faced by young people today. 

The PCYC, or Police-Citizens Youth Clubs, is a pivotal organisation within Queensland, boasting a network of fifty-six clubs throughout the state. 

It stands out as a not-for-profit entity that works in close collaboration with the police force, yet it significantly depends on the support and funding from the community to sustain its operations. 

This financial backing comes from several sources, including the proceeds from gym memberships and gymnastics programs, which are vital for the organisation’s ability to serve the youth effectively.
Maddie Payne plays a crucial role within the PCYC, focusing her efforts on tackling the various challenges that confront our young people. 

By working directly with the youth, Maddie and the PCYC aim to create a supportive environment that encourages personal growth, resilience, and positive community engagement. 

Through their programs, they seek to not only address immediate issues but also to lay down a foundation for a brighter future for the youth in our community.

“The Get Set for Work is targeted at youths aged between 15 to 19 year olds disengaged from school,” Maddie said.

"The program outlines some major issues youth face including anxiety, undiagnosed conditions, challenging home environments and the lack of basic life skills knowledge.”

“We deliver training over a 10 week period to improve their employability through skills development, work placements and addressing barriers they face.”

How does Maddie keep these kids engaged if they are so disengaged from school, how does she them coming back week after week?

“I’ve hit 80 out of 80 for my program. It’s just all about building that rapport, the connection and I probably can say that when it comes to them, I get down on their level."

“I have no fancy uniform, I am there to help them and mentor them to be the person they want to be.”

“We are essentially teaching them how to adult, how to live in this world.”

“Many don’t know what tax is or even a bank card, why are we not teaching this in schools?”

Despite the proven success, these youth programs face funding uncertainties from year to year based on government approvals. 

“But we have just been given funding approval on an innovative new 12-month mentorship program starting in April for at-risk youth aged between 15 to 25 years involved in crime.”

“Focusing on equine therapy, mental health support and establishing positive alternative pathways for them.”

“They’ll be able to get their white card, certificate, RSA and RSGs for example to have that feeling of success and achievement along the way.”

“By the end of it hopefully we can get them into employment.”

“Here at the PCYC we also offer Drop-Ins on Mondays, were youth can come play basketball, socialise and have some food.”

“We started the year with just nine kids showing up, we now have more than fifty.”

“Rotary have been amazing”, Maddie said.

“With the funds they have supplied we have been able to buy a BBQ, new basketballs and kitchen utensils for the programs.”

“We are also looking to bring back the good old PCYC discos to try and help get our youth off the streets at night.”

“We want to keep these programs run and more so over the school holidays, so if you have some free time please get in contact with us.”

The PCYC is deeply dependent on the generosity and involvement of volunteers, along with the broader community’s support, to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. 

So if you’re eager to contribute or learn more about how you can help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with either Lee or Maddie on 4124 5211. 

Your interest and participation can make a significant difference in the youth programs and initiatives we offer.

Links and QR Codes to the full LiveWell Hervey Bay Talks videos to be published soon.