Young people given a hand to continue with their education. HYMC 2010 Education Scholarships Announced

Tuesday 2nd February 2010

Five young people received a helping hand from the Hunter Youth Mentor Collaborative (HYMC) today to ensure they continue receiving the education they deserve.

The young people are recipients of a HYMC Educational Scholarship. They received their scholarships during a special presentation at 1pm at Hunter Wetland Centre.

The scholarships, valued at up to $3,000, are offered to young people who are experiencing financial hardship or need assistance to be able to continue their education. The money can be used to assist with a range of living and educational expenses.

HYMC Scholarship Committee chairman Damien Ward says a good education is one of the most precious gifts that can be given to young people in order to help them reach their full potential.

He says the Hunter’s mentor groups provide young people with an adult to listen to them and to share their experiences with them but sometimes more help is needed.

“Our members identified a number of young people at risk of missing out on the education that is so vital to their future and that of our region,” Mr Ward said.

“These scholarships will help young people to focus on getting an education and a chance for a better life.”

The scholarships are in their third year. They have been made possible with the generous support of HYMC partner Yellow as well as funding from the Newcastle Registered Clubs’ Community Development and Support Expenditure Scheme (CDSE). 

HYMC is an umbrella organisation for groups providing youth mentoring programs.

2010 HYMC scholarship winners (nominating HYMC member is in brackets):

• Continuing support for Belmont High School student Cassie Orchard from Belmont (RUSH Mentoring)
• TAFE student Krystal Lee Friggieri from Salt Ash (The Smith Family)
• Swansea High student Isaac Bliss from Caves Beach (Plan-It Youth)
• Belmont High student Dulcie Varagnolo from Belmont North (Plan-It Youth)
• Newcastle School of Performing Arts student Harlan Youngs from Dora Creek (Plan-It Youth).