Under our service delivery arm, we currently service approximately 1000 children and young people each year. Our services are underpinned by a youth-development and strengths-based approach to practice which focuses on enhancing protective factors, building on existing capacities and resources, and equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and resources to support their aspirations, achieve life goals and maximise life opportunities.
MYSA's service delivery is informed by consultation and young people and their communities as well as research and needs analyses undertaken with the major universities in South Australia and other states.
MYSA’s extensive youth services and programs are considered cutting edge.
As the leading youth settlement agency working with vulnerable and youth at risk in South Australia, MYSA’s services and programs cover a range of support needs including:
Casework and case management
Outreach (including street work)
Advocacy
Mental health
Drugs and alcohol
Financial counselling
Nutrition and hygiene
Housing and independent living program
Education and training
Employment and job readiness
Sport and recreation
Mentoring
Violence and conflict
Legal issues
Problem behaviours
Family conflict
Leadership
Bullying in schools
Parenting skills for young parents
Homework and employment clubs
Music and the arts
Computer labs and drop in centre
After school activities
Volunteer placement programs
Life skills development
MYSA's featured projects include:
MYSA was approached in 2011 by the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI) to coordinate the West End 'Hub' which is part of the WEST (West End Safety Trial). The WEST project was identified as a priority of the Capital City Committee in 2010.
The City West Hub is an after-hours crisis service, located in Hindley Street. The program aims to enhance protective factors and ensure safe environments for young people accessing Adelaide CBD on Friday and Saturday nights between 10pm and 5am.
During these hours young people can access culturally sensitive drop in, assessment and transport services for young people from a range of backgrounds including Indigenous and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse young people.
Younger children and those engaged in offending and health risk behaviours are prioritised. MYSA undertakes a comprehensive assessment of each child and young person referred to the service. Based on this assessment, MYSA coordinates transport and case management support during the week to address areas of unmet need. MYSA follows up all referrals to ensure the needs of children and young people are being met and if necessary, coordinate alternative support.
Under the SETS program, MYSA develops Personalised Development Plans and delivers case management support for young people who have been in Australia for less than five years based on where they are situated in the settlement process. Young people are supported in a range of areas including English language development, employment, education, housing, independent living, health and sport/arts/music/recreation.
The terms "at risk" and "vulnerable" are often used so broadly that almost any child or young person could qualify as being "at risk" or "vulnerable". Moreover, such definitions often appear to be based on mainstream realities, overlooking the unique factors that contribute to risk and vulnerability among those from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The terms "at risk" and "vulnerable" are used by MYSA to refer to the following groups:
Children/youth with a history of trauma
Children/youth experiencing parental abuse and neglect
Unaccompanied humanitarian minors
Youth who have lost or become separated from their families
Young asylum seekers
Homeless children/youth and those at risk of becoming homeless
Teenage mothers and young parents at risk
Children/youth with social, behavioural and mental health problems
Children/youth with drug and alcohol problems
Children/youth who have disengaged from school, family and community
MYSA's settlement work with multicultural youth includes:
Casework and case management
A central point for the sector to refer vulnerable and at risk clients
Outreach (including street work)
Housing program
Life skills program
Role modelling and mentoring
Sector support and capacity building
Program outcomes are achieved using a multi-pronged, integrated youth development approach that includes:
Individualised and intensive case management support including outreach and streetwork;
Group education and training programs including life skills development and mentoring;
Social, cultural, sporting, recreation and other community activities and;
Support for young families and parents with high and complex needs.
To keep up to date with current programs and initiatives or for more information see our ‘What’s On’ section.