Raise Up

Teamwork makes the dream work

Raise Up is YMCA New Zealand’s youth development programme for young people ages 13-18. It is run by youth for youth, organised into Raise Up crews of up to 20 rangatahi. The programme offers rangatahi a safe and positive environment in which to relax, socialise and achieve their goals. Raise Up activities include a mixture of regular weekly activities, events, workshops and personal development options. These are tailored to the specific interests and agenda of local rangatahi and could include sports, music, dance, fashion, leadership training, art, well-being support, environmental projects, etc.

Rangatahi apply to join the crew and go through a selection process. Volunteering their time for about two hours per week, crew members plan and implement events, weekly activities, outdoor days, educational workshops, etc. for their peers. Along the way, with guidance and support from a Youth Development Facilitator, they learn skills such as teamwork, leadership, goal setting, and event management.

Raise Up offers bronze, silver and gold endorsements that help young people gain leadership, event management and conflict resolution skills – great additions to any CV! Beyond the practical advantages, Raise Up fosters growth and quality relationships among Crew members and the wider community.