Make It Count - Fishing with At-Risk Kiwi Kids

On the brink. The young people we serve are struggling to find their way. Each faces a unique set of challenges on the journey to adulthood, but they're all at risk of serious, long-term negative outcomes - including ending up in the criminal justice system. We want to reach them before that happens.

Through our weekly fishing programme, we have engaged many vulnerable rangatahi, providing them with positive experiences that foster wellbeing, and encourage them to tap into wider systems of support.

Our vision is to see all young people lead fulfilling lives as valued members of our community.

About our founders -

Elvis Heke, former president of Black Power Whanganui, understands the obstacles that disadvantaged rangatahi face. Having grown up in tough circumstances and spent time in prison himself, he is passionate about "breaking the old cycles" and helping to bring a spark to the lives of at-risk kids. Elvis is completing his day-skipper certification.

George Light, a keen fisherman and a boat with more than 30 years experience. George was a major part of our program until recently. We wish George all the best with his future endeavours, but we are now in need of a boat.

As a volunteer-run, recreational programme, Make It Count aims to complement the great work being done by the whānau, government agencies, and other community organisations.

Backed by a handful of gutsy sponsors, Make It Count launched in mid 2018. Since then, our volunteer crew has supported dozens of at-risk youth, providing each of them with three to four opportunities to get out fishing.

We've seen the difference we can make, now we're working with MEFSC to develop the programme and make it sustainable in the long term.

We need your help, we now need to fundraise for a boat, one that's big enough and safe enough to take out four kids plus two adults. We are trying to get as many at-risk kids away from trouble and in to fishing as possible. The programme works, any donations are greatly appreciated.