LGBTQIA+ and other marginalised Young People on the Central Coast are often isolated and experience poorer mental health than the general population, some of the most recent (and youngest) local youth suicides have factored bullying as part of the multigeneration challenges which align with lack of visibility, support and positive framework.
YAAS! Young Authentic and Social is an arts and culture program for 12-24 year olds that has been designed around the existing needs of local Young People, and positions them front and centre for support, empowerment, and community connection. Carlee Heise, Senior Youth Worker and program Producer stated “Our mission is to create community and improve wellbeing for this vulnerable group, after only 2 months of the program, we are already seeing measurable benefit from the 120 Young People registered for our HalloQween 12-17s Dance Party at Coastal Twist Festival and 82% of surveyed attendees said they made new friends, while 77% said the event boosted their confidence. It’s a very special result when you have 88% of Young People reporting they felt like they could be themselves”.
YAAS! will deliver multiple parties per year, as well as creative workshop activations during school holidays, and a fortnightly creative social group. YAAS! Social is for 12-17 year old LGBTQIA+ Young People and mates to make friends and try new things in a safe, supported space.
YAAS! Social dates for Term 4:
27 Oct, 10 Nov, 24 Nov, 8 Dec, 22 Dec
Time: 4-6pm
Where: Meeting Room 3, Erina Library
Register here: https://naughtynoodle.com.au/yaas
YAAS! Social is supported by Central Coast Council.
YAAS! Young Authentic and Social is supported by the Department of Social Services.