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Youth support group Springboard has further cemented its place in the community with the purchase of the campground that adjoins Sheepworld, just north of Warkworth.
Springboard founder Gary Diprose says when the property was put up for sale, the opportunity to buy it was just too good to pass over.
It will eventually allow Springboard to provide temporary and safe accommodation for vulnerable young people who might otherwise end up homeless.
“We’re not in a position to do this now, or even in the immediate future, but by securing the land, we know this will be possible eventually,” Diprose says.
It was only a year ago that Springboard moved from its base in Hamatana Road, Snells Beach to Sheepworld. The sale of the Snells property, which sold for twice what was anticipated, provided the non-profit group with an unexpected windfall.
It is this money, along with a six-figure donation from one person, that has enabled Springboard to buy the campground.
Diprose says that unfortunately, the need for emergency housing for youth in the area is very real. At present, these at-risk 16 to 20-year-olds who cannot stay at home for various reasons are couch surfing, being put into motels or are being shipped out of the area.
“We don’t have a blueprint for how to do this, but we do know that by providing safe accommodation alongside all the wraparound services and support Springboard offers, will make a difference.”
The property covers just over one hectare and already contains a number of dwellings. Diprose says it lends itself to multiple uses. Springboard’s vision includes space for youth educational and leadership camps, and opportunities to provide young people, not just Springboard youth, with ways to learn bushcraft and enjoy the outdoors.
“Every child needs to experience the fun of sitting around a bonfire at night and being around animals. We’re on the Te Araroa trail, so how great would it be to drop kids in Pakiri and let them walk back to Sheepworld!”
The purchase comes as Springboard marks its 20th year.
From an initial group of seven young men, the organisation now caters for around 300 youth aged eight to 25 years. Through the years, the organisation has built strong links with police, schools and training organisations.
Diprose is understandably proud of the pathways many of the Springboard youth have taken, with many finding meaningful work, trades and progressing through to university. However, he says the real success has been in seeing vulnerable kids believing in themselves again.
“Sometimes all they need to know is that someone is in their corner who is ready to go into bat for them.
“This isn’t just Springboard that is making this happen – it takes a whole community.”
It wasn’t just the Black Ferns who were kicking goals on November 12. Springboard held its annual fundraising auction on the same evening, raising a whopping $231,000 – $131,000 in pledges and the balance contributed through dollar-for-dollar donations from Kennards Hire and Northwood Developments. All the money is earmarked specifically for Springboard programmes, which cover everything from youth mentoring and alternative education to employment-ready programmes and family support.
