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Springboard has received a $350,000 grant from the Wellsford Co-operating Parish dissolution commission, strengthening support for young people who need extra help in the Mahurangi region.
This gift is part of a bequest left some years ago by parish member Janos Tokoli, who entrusted the parish to distribute his legacy to local charities.
When the parish was dissolved in August last year, members unanimously requested that the remaining bequest be shared between Springboard and the Loaves & Fishes Foodbank Wellsford, recognising both organisations as locally rooted, effective and aligned with Janos’ Christian values.
The dissolution commission accepted this recommendation and distributed the funds accordingly, in line with the wishes of both the donor and the parish community.
Springboard chief executive Dan Gray said, “It’s amazing, and a tangible opportunity to keep building on the foundation of those who have gone before us, we are so grateful.
“It honours the belief and generosity of both Janos and the Wellsford Co-operating Parish, it helps us to equip young people as we help to build resilience and develop the confidence to walk boldly into their positive futures.
“And it supports Springboard to keep creating the spaces required to facilitate the training of young people, increasing their chances of finding employment, while instilling belief that ‘they can do it’.”
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the former parish members, the dissolution commission, and the Loaves & Fishes Foodbank Wellsford who are doing amazing mahi in the community, too. This will make a huge difference.”
Believing in young people
For 23 years, Springboard has walked alongside young people and their whanau, built upon a foundation of faith in God and that “no young person has gone too far for a helping hand up”.
Springboard believes that when young people have positive role models, are engaged in meaningful experiences and proud of what they are achieving, they will move forward.
