09 March 2015

Auckland (1 page + background)

$30,000 Jetstar grant helps Discovery Foundation expand youth programme to South Island

• Discovery Foundation awarded $30,000 Jetstar Flying Start grant

• Funds enable teen residential camp and children’s weekend programme in Christchurch

• Programmes build youth self-confidence and self-esteem

The Discovery Foundation has been announced as the 12th recipient of a Jetstar Flying Start grant, receiving $15,000 cash and $15,000 in travel to expand into Christchurch and deliver programmes that will help the youth of Canterbury and the South Island.

The Discovery Foundation was established by New Zealand parents in Auckland in 1991 to give young people skills and strategies to enable them to deal with challenges and get the best out of life.

The Flying Start grant will fund a seven-day teen residential camp (ages 14-18) and a children’s non-residential weekend programme (ages 8-12), designed to promote self-esteem and encourage young people to reach their potential.

Jaidan Mason, Event Manager for the Discovery Foundation, said the programme has been hugely successful in Auckland and the grant has made it possible to extend the benefits to young people in Christchurch.

“Young people face challenges for a whole number of reasons and, whilst we can’t fix them, we can equip them with skills and strategies to deal with these difficulties and make the most of their life.”

“The young people that we work with learn skills that will help them throughout their lives. Thanks to the Jetstar Flying Start grant, we will be able to help more young people to gain in confidence and reach their full potential.”

Napier mother Tina, whose teenage son attended a Discovery Foundation residential camp in Auckland, has seen the benefits of the programme first hand.

“My son had several years of bullying at school so always had just a small network of friends. To be able to attend a programme in a safe environment and without the negative aspect has been very positive for him. He has said he got many ideas and tools to use in everyday life and we are hearing positive comments come from him almost daily. He certainly gained confidence. We are very lucky to have this available as a personal development programme for our teenagers in NZ.”

Grant Kerr, Head of Jetstar New Zealand, said the programme offers a positive and supportive learning environment at a time when young people need it most.

“The Discovery Foundation is doing fantastic work to ensure that our young people have the skills they need to overcome life’s challenges and reach their potential. We’re very proud to be investing in the future of our country through this partnership.”

Since its inception in 2012 the Jetstar Flying Start Programme has awarded $360,000 in travel and cash grants to twelve New Zealand not-for-profit organisations.

Grants are awarded quarterly and applications for the next grant close at 5.00pm on 31 March 2015. Any New Zealand based not-for-profit community group or organisation in need of a Flying Start is encouraged to apply. Full application details and conditions can be found at www.jetstar.com.

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