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DONATE |
| CONTACT | |
DONATE |
KYS is a Youth One Stop Shop committed to providing the most effective services to meet the health and wellbeing needs of Kapiti youth. We’re passionate about providing services which truly make a difference and that means not only working closely with youth but also with families and the community.
Since opening in 1996 we have worked hard for excellence, while improving and extending the services we offer to our 5,200 young people. This figure demonstrates that we are meaningfully engaged with approximately 78% of Kapiti youth. (Census 2013 figures).
This high level of engagement is the direct result of the consistent efforts of our highly qualified team in contributing to the positive development of healthy young people as they transition into adulthood. The KYS team is experienced in working with young people and responding to their needs in a manner that achieves results.
Our services include medical and nursing services, sexual health, clinical psychology, counselling, alcohol and drug services, social work, mentoring, parenting, peer support, transition to work, youth development, education programmes and therapeutic groups.
All of our services are available free to Kapiti young people aged between 10 and 24 years.
Our holistic model of care allows each member of our team to build strong enduring relationships with the young people we engage with. This integrated approach is acknowledged to improve a young person’s engagement with services and their outcomes.
Our core strength is our commitment to seeing each young person as an individual with needs, strengths and challenges that are unique to them.
This approach enables meaningful contact and engagement with each young person and allows us to be responsive to their needs.
Being able to engage with young people from the ages of 10 to 24 in consistent ways supports relationship based practice. This is acknowledged as the most effective approach to working with young people, and our experience confirms this.
Our Vision
To be respected internationally for enabling youth to thrive in our community
Our Mission
To provide a safe, confidential, youth focused environment for the delivery of high quality health and support services for young people in the Kapiti Coast community
Our Values
Young Person Centered - Staff are responsive to the needs of young people and establish trusting and respectful relationships.
Staff build engagement through a consent based relationship and focus on the strengths of the young person.
Commitment to Quality - Staff makes sound decisions guided by research and evaluation and have the required skills, knowledge and training for their position.
Kaupapa of Care - Staff are passionate about improving the lives of young people and recognise the cultural, historical, economic, social and political contexts that young people live in. Staff are compassionate and show mutual trust and respect with colleagues as well as young people.
Relationship Focused - Staff advocate for young people and communicate with integrity while maintaining effective relationships
Staff work collaboratively, and contribute to ongoing integration within KYS. Innovation/Thinking differently – Staff are proactive and use initiative to ensure that KYS is leading the field.
Staff use evaluation, research and continual development to trial new ideas and learnings to ensure KYS is relevant to young people
All of our services are provided free of charge for young people aged 10-24 years. Because of this, funding is continually one of our greatest challenges. If you have a child who is engaged in our services or has been in the past, we would ask you to consider, if you possibly can, to use the donate button at the top of this page.
Or, if you’re a Vodafone customer, you can use our TEXT2Give option. Simply text the word KYS to 7003 to donate $3, 7005 to donate $5 or 7010 to donate $10. Every little bit makes a difference.
We have warm and friendly premises in both Paraparaumu and Otaki. You’ll find our address and contact details on the CONTACT page.
For college students we also provide weekly outreach clinics at Paraparmumu, Kapiti and Otaki colleges. Please see our school clinics page for more details.
Our commitment to youth, our focus on best practice and continuous commitment in research and development has resulted in us becoming a recognised leader in the delivery of youth services both internationally and in New Zealand.
Some of our achievements include:
Research Recognition
KYS Youth Outcomes Model and Measures.
This project affirms KYS as an innovative leader in the field of youth health and social support in NZ. KYS in partnership with Evaluation Works Ltd, using funding from the Health Research Council, has developed a youth outcomes model and measure that captures a set of meaningful and useful information about the outcomes for young people, including the hard to measure areas that are key to the development of healthy, resilient, thriving young people. We have trialled the model and measures as part of an impact evaluation that identified the changes experienced by young people and the contribution KYS made to those changes.
The highlights of the impact evaluation include:
This project has strongly enhanced KYS’s ability to effectively report on the health and wellbeing outcomes for the young people we work with and to ensure that our approach is the best it can be. It is a significant step towards developing an integrated; outcomes focused monitoring and reporting system to inform clinical and service planning, funding decisions and funders. In this way it is an emphatic response to Government’s ongoing requirements to measure the effectiveness of their investment in social and health spending.
Business Awards
2013 - Overall Team of the Year - CCDHB Quality Improvement and Innovation Awards
2013 - Supreme Award - CCDHB Quality Improvement and Innovation Awards
2008 - Small Business of the Year - Electra Kapiti Horowhenua Business Awards
2008 - Recognition of Community Service - Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards
Our young people are our leaders of tomorrow. Creating positive, well supported journeys into adulthood builds a foundation of strong confident contributors for our community. It is in all of our interest for this community to be populated by youth who are enabled to be everything they possibly can be. Our work has a direct impact on the reduction of youth suicides, crime, violence, drug and alcohol misuse. Costs to society from these issues is significant.
Although we receive some government funding there is a significant shortfall and funding is often short term and not guranteed. We rely on donations, grants and fundraising activities to support the current services. There are few investments that provide such enriched outcomes for not only our young people but their families and wider community. Your donation means a lot.
Our commitment to research both on a national and international level is ongoing. This work ensures that we are capturing the voice of our young people, keeping our staff involved in current evidence based developments and ensuring our services are appropriate to our community.
We have made it a priority to develop and maintain relationships with universities, evaluators and researchers. Our effort provides us with the ongoing opportunity to measure the effectiveness of our work and remain at the forefront of developing and trialing new interventions.
2010 - SPARX E-Therapy – participant in the trial of Sparx e-therapy (KYS provided 40% of the participants in this study)
http://www.werrycentre.org.nz/research/about-werry-centre-research
2013 - SPARX E- Therapy Monitoring Research Project. – KYS collaborated to pilot this project www.sparx.org.nz
An ongoing relationship with Massey University, Practice Research and Professional Development Hub - The Pathways to Resilience and Long Term Successful Youth Transitions research projects - KYS was invited to participate in these studies led by Professor Robyn Munford and Associate Professor Jackie Sanders and is involved in the dissemination of research findings http://www.youthsay.co.nz/massey/index.cfm
To view our Measuring Youth Outcomes Summary Report 2013 document, visit our website on a desktop computer
Behind every good organisation is a great support team - and KYS is no exception! From answering phones to the annual appeal, there’s so much that goes on behind the scenes to make KYS run in a smooth, organised and professional manner… and these are the people who help make that happen.
We are a non-government organisation with Charitable Trust status. The responsibilities of our Trust includes ensuring our vision, mission, goals and values are at all times upheld. Their responsibilities also include steering the strategic direction of our services.
Our team of Trustees bring to the table a variety of experience, skill, background and community connections. We are grateful for each and every one of them. Our Trustees are:
Andrea Stonehouse
Rob Kofoed (Chair)
Katrina Ross (Treasurer)
Jeremy Neeve
Experience:
I have been a member of the Kapiti Coast community for 25 years. As Assistant Principal of Paraparaumu College and the mother of two teenagers, I have a vested interest in the wellbeing of young people of this area.
Qualifications:
Director of Kofoed Architects for thirty five years on the Kapiti Coast. Active flying instructor and Otaki Airstrip manager. We have a family Cessna and enjoy going on trips.
Experiences:
Deputy chairman of the KCDC Otaki Community Board. Past President of Paraparaumu Rotary club and Paul Harris Fellow. I have been involved with KYS for over ten years.
Qualifications:
I have been a member of the Accountants and Tax Agents Institute of NZ since 2005.
Experience:
I worked as an administrator for KYS 18 years ago. I left to set up my own accountancy business here in Kapiti. I am honored to now support this amazing organisation in the role of Treasurer.
Qualification:
I've lived on the Kapiti Coast for 23 years and been involved in a number of charities including Youth Quest. I'm currently employed by The Wellington City Mission as their Social Enterprise Manager.
Experience:
Previously I have served on the boards of The Wellington City Mission and Zeal and have had involvement with KYS for the last few years.
I have lived on the Kapiti Coast since 1973. My wife and I have raised our 4 children here. I have been involved in education and support of young people for most of my working life. I have been involved in boards and governance for many years. I serve on one other board with similar involvement with young people
Experiences:
I have a background in sales, marketing and advertising. After university I worked in sales then enjoyed a career in the advertising industry for 12 years before starting a family. For the last 10 years I have worked from home running a successful small businesses, interspersed with contract marketing work.
Loves:
My life!
Qualifications:
BBus, NZDipBus, NZIM DipMgt
Experience:
Rose has over 20 years' experience in Office and Practice Management for Accounting and Legal Firms. Enjoy working with accounting and computer systems and helping solve problems.
Loves:
Maths puzzles, new gadgets, reading, dog walking, cooking, my family, and working at KYS!
Experience:
Former Youth Rep at KYS during college. I've spent the Last 2 years travelling to all parts of the world, in between travelling I've been working as Receptionist/Fitness instructor at City Fitness.
Loves:
Anything adventurous, spending time at the gym, tattoos and sunsets
Experience:
This is my first part time job! I am also doing online school and I'm on the Kapiti Coast District Youth Council.
Loves:
I love sunshine, concerts and going on adventures with my friends and whanau 😁. I am very passionate about human rights and love being involved in helping our environment!
Qualifications:
BA majors in both International Relations and Religious Studies, minor in Political Science.
Experience:
Halfway through 2019, I completed my undergraduate degree at Victoria University of Wellington. Having grown up on the Kapiti Coast, it is especially lovely to return to my community and be a friendly face at the KYS front desk. When I'm not at KYS, you can find me teaching ballet locally. Wherever I am, I'm passionate about nurturing communication between others, improving our relationships with people and our relationship to the world around us.
Loves:
TV shows where the whole season is released at once, sunsets, dog walks, cooking, friends and a dancefloor.
Qualifications:
RGON (Registered General & Obstetric Nurse), Bachelor of Nursing, Certificate in Supervision, Post Graduate Diploma in Primary Health Care Otago University
Experience:
Raechel has over 30 years' experience in heath, social services and youth development and is currently CEO of KYS. Raechel has been a member of various regional and national groups, including as a member of the Regional Youth Mortality Review Committee; she has served on the University of Auckland Youth Health Specialisation Advisory Group and as an Executive Member of the national Youth One Stop Shop (YOSS) network.
Loves:
Family, skiing, driving fast (when allowed to!) and the odd spot of shopping.
All of the doctors at KYS are trained GP’s who also work in other local practices. They have expert skills, knowledge and experience in working with youth and choose to work here because they are passionate about young people. They offer the full range of doctor’s services - and it’s free.
Usually the first health professional you’ll see when you come to KYS, our team of Registered Nurses are vastly experienced and can help you with all general medical conditions, as well as sexual health or mental health concerns. If there’s something they can’t help you with, they’ll find out who can.
The Mental Health team comprises qualified and experienced mental health clinicians, psychologists and counsellors offering therapy for mild to moderate mental health issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug addiction, anger management, grief and loss. We have a holistic approach that effectively supports young people to flourish.
In response to the ongoing demand within the community, and to make it easier for Otaki young people to access KYS, we have opened an outreach clinic in Otaki offering free Doctor and Nurse services. This clinic is currently open on Tuesdays from 11am – 4pm. To make an appointment please call KYS on 063647305 or KYS in Paraparaumu on 049059597.
For those who find it hard to get to KYS or who just want a chat, the regular College clinics gives access to our registered nurses at Paraparaumu, Kapiti and Otaki colleges during college hours. A doctor is also available at the Otaki clinic.
Appointments for school clinics can be made at the school reception however we do accommodate drop-ins.
Otaki College – Tuesday 9-10.30am - Sue Wilson & Tracey Bentall / Thurs 10.30am-2pm - Kat Welsh & Katie Nicho
Paraparaumu College – Mon 10.30am-12:30pm - Kate Douglas
Kapiti College – Mon 10.30am-12:30pm - Debbie Jones
Qualifications:
MBBS, MRCGP, FRNZCGP (UK qualified)
Experiences:
I believe my strengths at work are mental health, sexual health/contraception. Through my work as a GP, I have been able to build up an ongoing supportive relationship with my patients
Loves:
Kids/Family, exploring new places, good food! Keeping active, after eating good food! Taking my horse galloping on the beach.
Qualifications:
MB.chB, FRN2CGP
Experience:
I grew up in Levin as part of a big family. I trained as a doctor in Dunedin then returned to the Kapiti Coast where I have been practising as a doctor for 30 years. I have worked at KYS for 20 years.
Loves:
Being in the country, enjoying good food with friends and family.
Qualifications:
FRNZCGP, MBChB, BSc (Neuroscience)
Loves:
Living and breathing CREATIVITY.
Qualifications:
RGON (Registered General & Obstetric Nurse), ADN (Advanced Diploma Nursing), P.G. Cert, PHC
Experience:
I have been nursing for over 30 years, the last 7 at KYS. Previously I worked at Hutt Hospital in the Coronary Care Unit, Wellington Hospital and various hospitals in London for 7 years.
Loves:
Cooking, baking and eating - especially Indian food.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing.
Experience:
Born and bred at KYS, I have been working here for the last 10 years.
Loves:
Doing life with great friends and family.
Qualifications:
Registered Nurse specialist in Sexual Health
Experience:
I’ve been nursing for 25 years in sexual & reproductive health and have a background in Public Health, Cervical Screening & Immunisation. I’m passionate about young people having access to great health services so I’m excited to be working at KYS.
Loves:
Acting in amateur dramatics, movies & spending time with my 3 great kids.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing. Post Graduate certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice
Experience:
I have been nursing for four years. I grew up in Kapiti and attended Kapiti college before moving to Auckland to study. Since graduating I have worked within primary health care – in a rural GP clinic north of Auckland, Urgent care in Auckland and a central Wellington GP clinic. I love being back in Kapiti and working within the community.
Loves:Keeping active, the beach, walking my dog and seeing friends and family.
Qualifications:
Qualified Counsellor (MNZAC)
Experience:
I am a qualified counsellor and I work at KYS on Monday afternoons. I am married with 3 teens , 1 grandson (and his dad) and 2 dogs.
Loves:
Music, the sea, blo-karting and fixing bikes.
Qualifications:
Bachelors of Alcohol and Drug Studies
Experience:
I spent 4 years as a youth drug and alcohol counsellor around the greater Wellington region working within schools and other social services. In 2016 I worked as a youth coach in the Porirua area and now am happy to be closer to home at KYS.
Loves:
A good Joke, Music and Family
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Arts – major psychology, minor Sociology, Master of Educational Psychology, PGDip in Educational Psychology Practice.
Experience:
Following the completion of my Bachelors, I went overseas to travel and work for two years. On return, I continued my studies and began working at Central Regional Health School in the City. My research for my Masters involved understanding direct experiences of adolescent anxiety. During my internship I completed my placement at both Ministry of Education and Kapiti Youth Support.
Loves:
Being outdoors and active, food, cooking, any time with friends and family. My cat :D.
Qualifications:
M Ed Psychology (Cum Laude), Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Cum Laude), Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelors of Arts majoring in Psychology and English
Experience:
My previous employment was with the Ministry of Education's Behaviour Support Service where I provided psychological support to children and adolescents who present with behavioural challenges, their parents, whanau and learning institutions. Prior to this I worked as a psychologist in private practice within a medical centre where I provided assessment and therapeutic intervention to children, adolescents and young adults who experience social, emotional, learning, behavioural, and/or primary mental health difficulties. My area of passion has always been partnering with young people in a therapeutic relationship, where we explore their particular needs, values and strengths to inform the development of some tailored tools and strategies that they can continue to use autonomously during difficult times.
Loves:
Music, travelling, spending quality time with family and friends, exploring and appreciating everything that this beautiful country has to offer!
Qualifications:
MBBS, MRCGP, FRNZCGP (UK qualified)
Experiences:
I believe my strengths at work are mental health, sexual health/contraception. Through my work as a GP, I have been able to build up an ongoing supportive relationship with my patients
Loves:
Kids/Family, exploring new places, good food! Keeping active, after eating good food! Taking my horse galloping on the beach.
Qualifications:
MB.chB, FRN2CGP
Experience:
I grew up in Levin as part of a big family. I trained as a doctor in Dunedin then returned to the Kapiti Coast where I have been practising as a doctor for 30 years. I have worked at KYS for 20 years.
Loves:
Being in the country, enjoying good food with friends and family.
Qualifications:
RGON (Registered General & Obstetric Nurse), ADN (Advanced Diploma Nursing), P.G. Cert, PHC
Experience:
I have been nursing for over 30 years, the last 7 at KYS. Previously I worked at Hutt Hospital in the Coronary Care Unit, Wellington Hospital and various hospitals in London for 7 years.
Loves:
Cooking, baking and eating - especially Indian food.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing.
Experience:
Born and bred at KYS, I have been working here for the last 10 years.
Loves:
Doing life with great friends and family.
Qualifications:
Registered Nurse specialist in Sexual Health
Experience:
I’ve been nursing for 25 years in sexual & reproductive health and have a background in Public Health, Cervical Screening & Immunisation. I’m passionate about young people having access to great health services so I’m excited to be working at KYS.
Loves:
Acting in amateur dramatics, movies & spending time with my 3 great kids.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing. Post Graduate certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice
Experience:
I have been nursing for four years. I grew up in Kapiti and attended Kapiti college before moving to Auckland to study. Since graduating I have worked within primary health care – in a rural GP clinic north of Auckland, Urgent care in Auckland and a central Wellington GP clinic. I love being back in Kapiti and working within the community.
Loves:Keeping active, the beach, walking my dog and seeing friends and family.
Qualifications:
MBBS, MRCGP, FRNZCGP (UK qualified)
Experiences:
I believe my strengths at work are mental health, sexual health/contraception. Through my work as a GP, I have been able to build up an ongoing supportive relationship with my patients
Loves:
Kids/Family, exploring new places, good food! Keeping active, after eating good food! Taking my horse galloping on the beach.
Qualifications:
MB.chB, FRN2CGP
Experience:
I grew up in Levin as part of a big family. I trained as a doctor in Dunedin then returned to the Kapiti Coast where I have been practising as a doctor for 30 years. I have worked at KYS for 20 years.
Loves:
Being in the country, enjoying good food with friends and family.
Qualifications:
Registered Nurse specialist in Sexual Health
Experience:
I’ve been nursing for 25 years in sexual & reproductive health and have a background in Public Health, Cervical Screening & Immunisation. I’m passionate about young people having access to great health services so I’m excited to be working at KYS.
Loves:
Acting in amateur dramatics, movies & spending time with my 3 great kids.
Qualifications:
MBBS, MRCGP, FRNZCGP (UK qualified)
Experiences:
I believe my strengths at work are mental health, sexual health/contraception. Through my work as a GP, I have been able to build up an ongoing supportive relationship with my patients
Loves:
Kids/Family, exploring new places, good food! Keeping active, after eating good food! Taking my horse galloping on the beach.
Qualifications:
MB.chB, FRN2CGP
Experience:
I grew up in Levin as part of a big family. I trained as a doctor in Dunedin then returned to the Kapiti Coast where I have been practising as a doctor for 30 years. I have worked at KYS for 20 years.
Loves:
Being in the country, enjoying good food with friends and family.
Qualifications:
Registered Nurse specialist in Sexual Health
Experience:
I’ve been nursing for 25 years in sexual & reproductive health and have a background in Public Health, Cervical Screening & Immunisation. I’m passionate about young people having access to great health services so I’m excited to be working at KYS.
Loves:
Acting in amateur dramatics, movies & spending time with my 3 great kids.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing. Post Graduate certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice
Experience:
I have been nursing for four years. I grew up in Kapiti and attended Kapiti college before moving to Auckland to study. Since graduating I have worked within primary health care – in a rural GP clinic north of Auckland, Urgent care in Auckland and a central Wellington GP clinic. I love being back in Kapiti and working within the community.
Loves:Keeping active, the beach, walking my dog and seeing friends and family.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Nursing. Post Graduate certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice
Experience:
I have been nursing for four years. I grew up in Kapiti and attended Kapiti college before moving to Auckland to study. Since graduating I have worked within primary health care – in a rural GP clinic north of Auckland, Urgent care in Auckland and a central Wellington GP clinic. I love being back in Kapiti and working within the community.
Loves:Keeping active, the beach, walking my dog and seeing friends and family.
Qualifications:
RGON (Registered General & Obstetric Nurse), ADN (Advanced Diploma Nursing), P.G. Cert, PHC
Experience:
I have been nursing for over 30 years, the last 7 at KYS. Previously I worked at Hutt Hospital in the Coronary Care Unit, Wellington Hospital and various hospitals in London for 7 years.
Loves:
Cooking, baking and eating - especially Indian food.
Developed for young people aged 12-18 years who may be showing signs of challenging behaviour, Stepping Stones is a dynamic, fun, and practical programme that involves a 10 week group course, individual mentoring, connecting with community and whanau support. Themes such as managing emotions and changing negative thoughts and beliefs are covered. Its aim is to help each young person develop the motivation within to build new and different attitudes and behaviours that will ultimately impact positively on their lives.
The Parent Support programme provides education, care and support to young parents (15-24 age groups). This includes hapu/antenatal support groups and birth education with young parents. Relationships formed through these ‘early stages’ groups have formed the framework for on-going weekly parent support groups and courses. Triple P programmes are offered for parents requiring support, education and skills in child behavioural management.
One of the strengths of the mentoring programme at KYS is the opportunity for long term involvement with young people. Often young people with complex mental health issues will access both the mentor for support with building self-esteem and making progress on goals, whilst also seeing the KYS clinical psychologist. It’s not uncommon for the mentor to have seen someone for several years; although contact may no longer be on a weekly basis, when an issue confronts the young person and they require clarity or guidance they are able to easily re-engage with KYS. It also gives KYS a chance to see the long term development of the young person and the positive effects of KYS in their lives.
The He Kākano programme is an integrated strength based approach, keeps the young person at centre and acknowledges their context. He Kākano represents the seed, a young person. The programme aims to develop (Whakawhanake), grow (Whakatipu) and flourish (Whakapuawai) the seed.
He Kākano adopts the Youth Development model that supports, develops and empowers young people to grow; increases their knowledge, develops skills and builds confidence. This enables them to problem solve, build social competency and resources to manager their relationships; resilience development and positive decision making so they can flourish.
He Kākano has a kaupapa Maori approach, led by Maori. It aims to develop tino rangatiratanga, an understanding of where young people stand in their life, whanau, hapu and iwi and within Te Ao Maori.
Building Financial Capability is a programme KYS is delivering to Young People aged 16-24 years in need of one to one mentoring around their finances. The one to one mentoring supports and empowers young people to gain control over their financial lives, identify their aspirations and create good habits while helping them achieve their financial goals. Building Financial Capability also gives KYS the opportunity to facilitate group meetings, aptly named MoneyMates, where young people can meet regularly, talk about and de-stigmatise financial hardship while learning from each other.
Experience:
I grew up on the Kapiti Coast with my awesome whanau. During college I worked as a Youth Rep at KYS. I attended Kapiti College and I was a teacher-aide at the mighty Paekakariki Primary School.
Loves:
Sports, being outside and hanging with friends and family!
Qualifications:
Certificate personal training level 4, Diploma in youth work level 6
Experience:
I grew up on the beautiful Kapiti coast. After travelling and working in Australia and the USA I worked as a youth mentor at Kapiti College while studying as a youth worker and raising my son. I am excited to join the KYS team.
Loves:
Being a mama, family, good people, being outdoors, adventures.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Social Work, Bachelor of Applied Arts – major music.
Experience:
After finishing my degree I lived in the UK and travelled through Europe. When I came back I got a job as a Social Worker in the Care & Protection service for Oranga Tamariki. I then moved to a role at Wesley Community Action, working as a Social Worker in the Foster Care programme. I then went to a role at Oranga Tamariki Youth Justice where I worked before starting my role at KYS as Stepping Stones Social Worker.
Loves:
Music - I've been drumming since I was 12, playing in bands, currently playing in a covers band in Kapiti, singer/songwriter, going to the gym and watching cartoons.
Experiences:
I have been involved in youth work and community development for the past 2 decades. I am trained in Triple P Parenting Programme which I implement in my role in KYS.
Loves:
Spending time with my whanau - beach fun, bush walks and new travelling experiences! I enjoy morning runs, good coffee, and being creative.
Experience:
I’m the Shizzle McNizzle Dizzle! I have been coming to KYS since I was 15 years old and now I am helping out with the young Mums group as a volunteer.
Loves:
Spending time with my 3 year old daughter (who is the bomb diggity!) Meeting new people, all animals, music and whistling in public.
Experiences:
I have been involved with Youth and Community work for 30+ years including running a boy’s home for 16 years. I travel extensively Internationally training Youth and Community Workers and work with the Justice Department training and assisting judges in their communications with young people and their families in the court room.
Loves:
Fishing and diving - I love venison and paua.
Qualifications:
Level 3 Outdoor Supervision Certificate
Experience:
I grew up in South Auckland for 30+ years. I spent 14 years working in the Aluminium Windows and Doors Industry before moving on to an Engineering company Buckley Systems that provides end to end design, engineering and integration solutions for magnetic systems. In 2007 I decided to move to the Kapiti Coast to be part of a youth program Youthquest that helped young men aged 14-24 years of age who required direction and positive male role models. Mentoring was a key part of that transition for the young men.
Loves:
I love any kind of sport or activity but I have a passion for Rugby League. Family is important to me and so most weekends are spent hanging with my family, playing sports and socialising with friends. Huge fan of the NZ Warriors and only just converted to the Hurricanes
Qualifications:
I am a Qualified Painter and Decorator. Level 3 Outdoor Activities Supervisor NZOIA
Experience:
I worked as a Youth Mentor for Youthquest for 10 years. I've lived on the Kāpiti Coast since 2000. I'm married have 4 children and 2 mokopuna. I sing in church worship team.
Loves:
Whānau, Rugby, Rugby League, TAG, Food mmmmm food. Lets go the Warriors.
Qualifications:
Level 3 Outdoor Supervision Certificate
Experience:
I grew up in South Auckland for 30+ years. I spent 14 years working in the Aluminium Windows and Doors Industry before moving on to an Engineering company Buckley Systems that provides end to end design, engineering and integration solutions for magnetic systems. In 2007 I decided to move to the Kapiti Coast to be part of a youth program Youthquest that helped young men aged 14-24 years of age who required direction and positive male role models. Mentoring was a key part of that transition for the young men.
Loves:
I love any kind of sport or activity but I have a passion for Rugby League. Family is important to me and so most weekends are spent hanging with my family, playing sports and socialising with friends. Huge fan of the NZ Warriors and only just converted to the Hurricanes
Qualifications:
I am a Qualified Painter and Decorator. Level 3 Outdoor Activities Supervisor NZOIA
Experience:
I worked as a Youth Mentor for Youthquest for 10 years. I've lived on the Kāpiti Coast since 2000. I'm married have 4 children and 2 mokopuna. I sing in church worship team.
Loves:
Whānau, Rugby, Rugby League, TAG, Food mmmmm food. Lets go the Warriors.
Qualifications:
BBus, NZDipBus, NZIM DipMgt
Experience:
Rose has over 20 years' experience in Office and Practice Management for Accounting and Legal Firms. Enjoy working with accounting and computer systems and helping solve problems.
Loves:
Maths puzzles, new gadgets, reading, dog walking, cooking, my family, and working at KYS!
Youth Service (MSD - W&I Youth Service within the Kapiti district). The Youth Service coaches work with young people aged 16 & 17 ( NEET) who are disengaging from school and support them to reengage with education or training and help transition them into employment.
The youth coaches also work with young people who are receiving a Work and Income benefit and support them to meet the requirements of their benefit whilst providing wrap-around support through the many services offered at KYS. The youth coaches have developed close relationships with a variety of employers, this helps facilitate the young person into appropriate employment and the employer appreciates the extra support available to them as the young person settles into work.
It is well known that periods of major transition make young people more vulnerable. These include primary to secondary school, school to employment / further study and leaving home to go flatting.
KYS also administers the Young Parent Payment (YPP), a weeky payment for 16-19 year old parents who are in need of financial assistance.
http://www.youthservice.govt.nz/
Please contact us for more details.
Youth Pathways to Employment - Otaki
A new programme aims to improve employment opportunities for young people living in Ōtaki aged between 15 and 24 years. The Youth Pathways pilot project has received initial funding from Kapiti Coast District Council for a period of nine months. The project will be run by Kāpiti Youth Support. KYS are well placed to offer this pilot project as they have many established networks throughout the community and already provide the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) Work & Income Youth Services initiative.
The Youth Pathways Co-ordinator will work alongside the Youth Service coaches as both roles add value for young people transitioning into employment or training. One of the roles of the Co-ordinator will be to develop and build strong relationships with local businesses, educators and trainers to advance vocational pathways for this group and to create a database of youth friendly employers so that these businesses can be connected with suitable young workers.
Qualifications:
National Certificate in Animal Care, National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, National Certificate in Fitness Instructing, National Certificate in Advanced Personal Training
Experience:
As a Vet nurse I worked as a surgical nurse at Wellington SPCA then moved on to Personal training and became HOD of Administration at Fit Club Gym.
Loves:
My background consists of a variety of different roles over the years including veterinary nursing, sales and marketing and administration; however my passion for youth developed over a number of years when I trained as a Personal Trainer, this is where I developed my client base and approach towards helping youth with Confidence building, health and wellbeing as well as disabilities. I have worked at KYS in the youth services team for 5 years now, taking a break to have my daughter in 2018. Loves: Spending time with my family, animals, the gym, walking my dog!
Qualifications:
Bachelor of arts in Education and Sociology
Experience:
I Grew up on the Kapiti Coast and after a university stint in Palmerston North returned to work here on the Coast. For the past 11 years I have been working in the 'disability' sector helping individuals make and achieve goals, enter into employment and enjoy their life.
Loves:
All things animals, boxing, food, socialising, family, traveling and exploring!
Qualifications:
Diploma in Performing Arts, Graduate Diploma in Teaching - GradDipT
Experience:
I am a devoted father of 3, and am fluent in NZSL. I have had many management roles in the hospitality industry over the last 20 years, and have been DJ'ing for 15 years.
Loves:
DJ’ing, rugby league and my family.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Social Work, Massey University. Level 7 /8 Counselling Studies, NMIT.
Experience:
I am originally from Lower Hutt. I have worked in many different sectors including Oranga Tamariki, Family Violence, Sexual Violence, and Mental Health. I have also travelled extensively and lived and worked as a Tour Guide in India for ten years. I feel privileged to take up a role as Youth Coach at KYS supporting our very important young people.
Loves:
Camping, Travelling, weekends, adventures, nature, spirituality and spending time with my daughter and eating healthy food.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Social Work.
Experience:
I grew up on the Kapiti Coast and while at Paraparaumu college I was a peer support worker for Kapiti Youth Support. After my degree, I moved to Auckland for a year or so and worked as a social worker before moving home to be with family, friends and my puppy, Oli. I am super happy to be back home, at KYS!
Loves:
Puppies (especially my pup, Oli), food, sunshine and adventures.
Qualifications:
National Certificate in Travel & Tourism, Level 1-4
Experience:
I worked for Telecom for 10 years before moving to the UK and working for Canon UK. I worked for several years as an events co-ordinator for KCDC prior to my new role at KYS.
Loves:
Family time, fitness, interested in body building.
The Youth Rep programme is an integral part of KYS and was established within a year of first opening. The KYS Youth Reps are a team of motivated and friendly young people from Kapiti and Paraparaumu Colleges who are in Year 13. They are paid and volunteer their time to work for KYS and give back to their community. The Youth Reps role is to be the youth friendly face of KYS, they work at the front desk after school, they help to keep KYS clean and tidy, they run and attend events initiated by KYS and local community organisations, and they are a friendly face within the college that studentscan go to if they need information about getting support. The Youth Reps are important members of the KYS team, keeping us up to date and current with what is happening for our young people in the Kapiti Coast area and beyond. Many of our youth reps have gone on to be social workers, doctors, nurses, counsellors or have even returned to work at KYS. New youth reps are selected every year. If you are interested in applying for a Youth Rep role, please contact us.
Project Youth is a fun, supportive, confidential social hub for young people with diverse genders and sexualities in the Kāpiti region. Part support group, part hang-out space, we meet once a week and take on group events and activities throughout the year. Project Youth is open to all young people between 13 - 18 who are exploring their gender and sexuality, who identify as Takatāpui or who fit within the LGBTQIA* spectrum.
*LGBTQIA stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual. It is an acronym that covers some of the identities in our rainbow community, but certainly not all.
Art workshops
Resiliency workshops
Love me not
Driver license training
KYS Annual Appeal
Being a Charitable Trust, KYS is always exploring new and creative ways to fund its work. With this in mind we launched our first ever annual street appeal in May 2015 – "Coining it for KYS". Staff from KYS, Youth Reps from the local colleges and volunteers from the community all pitched in to help collect from sites around the Kapiti region from Paekakariki to Otaki. With all the coins collected from the Appeal we created an amazing coin art mural of music superstar Ed Sheeran which was displayed in our local Coastlands shopping mall, and was available for public viewing all weekend. See pictures here
The KYS Annual Appeal is held every year in May. We rely heavily on volunteers for this event, so if you feel you could contribute by collecting for us on the day, please get in touch.
KYS has partnered with Shift to deliver an innovative, activity based programme to young women in Kapiti. Shift is an initiative to improve the wellbeing of young women aged 12-20 years. We co-design wellbeing solutions with young women to better understand their needs in an ever-changing environment. We seek and hear feedback, and embrace constant iteration and meaningful engagement. We are accessible, agile, and strongly believe in building whanaungatanga. We experiment, collaborate and have fun! We work in the worlds of wellbeing science, physical activity, social entrepreneurship and design.
Hi, I’m Stefan. I go to Kāpiti College and I love riding my motorbike and chilling with my friends. I’m a Youth Rep for KYS and I can’t wait to work with everyone at KYS! Kāpiti College Head Boy for 2020, Kāpiti Coast Youth Councillor, Kāpiti Youth Support Youth Rep
My name is Niamh and I'm year 13 at Kapiti College. I'm passionate about sport and love playing and coaching football. Some of my hobbies include going to the gym, coaching and playing sport, eating good food, walking my dog Lottie and spending time with my friends, family, and my cat Cosmo. I'm super excited about being part of the KYS team this year
My name's Evalina and I'm a year thirteen at Kāpiti College. I love playing instruments, helping out within the community, and also my three cats. My favourite food would definitely be Chinese food and my favourite type of music is classic rock. Being a Youth Rep at Kāpiti Youth Support is super fun so feel free to talk to me about KYS if you see me around.
I'm Devon Foster, a year 13 at Kapiti College. I was born on a farm in Pukekohe but since finishing primary school I have lived in Australia and Malaysia. I enjoy meeting and interacting with lots of different types of people. I am a strong advocate for equity and enjoy helping others when they are in need.
Hi I'm Hannah, a student at Paraparaumu College. I enjoy digital art, cosplay, and sci-fi. Usually you can find me by C-block so don't be afraid to drop by!
Hiya!!! My name is Molly, I am lucky enough to be a Community Captain at Paraparaumu College! I enjoy spending time in and on the ocean and my love for indoor plants is almost concerning. I’m super excited to ride the wave of 2020 alongside Kapiti Youth Support.
Kiā ora Koutou! My name is Lachlan, but most people just call me Lockie. I'm honoured to be Paraparaumu College's 2020 Head Boy. I'm very passionate about Te Reo Māori and Kapa Haka. My main sport is Karate which I compete at a high level, but my favourite hobby is hitting the trails on the mountain bike! I'm very excited for 2020 and what is to come. And especially working alongside Kāpiti Youth Support. Let's bring on the year!!
Kia Ora, my name is Raukura Drake. I am a year 13 from Paraparaumu College and one of your Kāpiti Youth Support Youth Reps for 2020. My passions include sport, my culture and helping others.
Experience:
This is my first part time job! I am also doing online school and I'm on the Kapiti Coast District Youth Council.
Loves:
I love sunshine, concerts and going on adventures with my friends and whanau 😁. I am very passionate about human rights and love being involved in helping our environment!
Qualifications:
Bsc Hons Geography with Sports Studies
Post graduate in Careers Guidance
NVQ level 4 Youth Guidance and support
Experience:
Taught English in Spain and at summer camp in UK. Worked as a youth guidance and schools counselor in the UK for about 7 years then moved to sunny New Zealand and starting working for Central Regional Health School. Worked within community Mental Health organisation before joining the crew at KYS.
Loves:
Travelling everywhere, mountain biking in the hills and working on my van.
Qualifications:
Certificate in Design (Lvl 3), Certificate in Creative Technologies (Lvl 4), Ngā Poutoko Whakarara Oranga (Bachelor of Bicultural Social Work Lvl 7).
Experience:
I've been doing work in the rainbow community on and off since I was seventeen and was priveleged enough to study at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa to gain a degree which allows me to do that mahi full time. For the past year have worked for the Sexual Abuse Help Foundation in both Crisis Support and Social Work roles.
My dream is to support peoples mauri ora through interaction with nature and kai. Basically I just love a good feed and a walk in the bush.
Loves:
My beautiful family. Food, reading, gardening, activism, getting out of the city. Watching way too much TV. Nerding out about fungi or whatever topic I'm currently obsessed with.
Experiences:
I have a background in sales, marketing and advertising. After university I worked in sales then enjoyed a career in the advertising industry for 12 years before starting a family. For the last 10 years I have worked from home running a successful small businesses, interspersed with contract marketing work.
Loves:
My life!
Experience:
Former Youth Rep at KYS during college. I've spent the Last 2 years travelling to all parts of the world, in between travelling I've been working as Receptionist/Fitness instructor at City Fitness.
Loves:
Anything adventurous, spending time at the gym, tattoos and sunsets
We’re sure you know what it’s like having a house full of kids - particularly teenagers. They’re expensive! Well imagine looking after 5000 of them. That’s what we do. All of our services are provided free of charge, and balancing the budget is an ongoing challenge. If you are able to help us out by donating, you have no idea how grateful we would be. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Use the GREEN BUTTONS to donate through PAYPAL or for bank payments see below:
WESTPAC BANK
03-0732-0304376-00
Email kys@kys.org.nz to be sent a tax deductible receipt
Opened in August 2016, the KYStore has established itself as a boutique shopping destination in Kapiti. Situated at 39 Kapiti Rd, on the corner of Kapiti and Ngahina Streets, the KYStore is brimming with high quality clothing, designer labels, good quality homewares and furniture.
The KYStore is the only charity store focused on benefitting youth in the Wellington region, with 100% of profits going directly back to the KYS One Stop Shop Trust.
We are always on the lookout for good quality furniture, homewares, bric-a-brac and clothing. We have a pickup service for large furniture items. Please give us a call on 021 502 127.
39 Kapiti Rd, Paraparaumu