Posted on 3rd August 2021
Youth Solutions has shrugged off the challenges faced during the pandemic, when it recently brought home two major awards in recognition of its exemplary commitment to the region’s young people.
The charity, which delivers programs in the Macarthur and Wingecarribee regions, was recognised for excellence in health promotion at the NADA (Network of Alcohol and other Drug Agencies): 2021 AOD Awards for the NSW Non-Government Sector.
The award, presented in late April, recognised: “… excellence and/or innovation to prevent and/or reduce alcohol and other drug related harms. This includes health promotion, harm reduction, community development, prevention and consumer engagement or peer worker activities.”
Youth Solutions team were still celebrating when they found out the charity’s Safer Celebrations community partnership with Campbelltown Catholic Club had been successful in the Education category at the Clubs NSW Clubs & Community Awards.
Youth Solutions CEO Geraldine Dean and Campbelltown Catholic Club representatives accepted the award at a gala event at Sydney ICC on 20 May.
Campbelltown Catholic Club posted on social media on the night: “We are stoked to announce that our team have won the clubs and community award for the education category for Youth Solutions Safer Celebrations Partnership.”
Youth Solutions and Campbelltown Catholic Club implement Safer Celebrations from November to January each year, targeting the peak celebration season for young people. The campaign encourages safer celebrating and partying, with a particular focus on alcohol.
Safer Celebrations includes a strong media campaign, a number of community engagement stalls and activities and other social marketing strategies which aim to make safe celebrating the social norm.
Youth Solutions’ Geraldine Dean said the awards recognised the importance and value of the programs delivered by the charity.
“While the pandemic was a challenge for us, I must convey how incredibly proud I am of the Youth Solutions team, Board and volunteers for their hard work, support and incredible resilience,” Mrs Dean said.
“Despite the challenges, we’ve been able to maintain our focus and continue to deliver quality programs that aim to keep our young people healthy, safe and connected.”
