A former rugby league player and a Howick businessman are teaming up, and going in boots and all, aiming to reduce youth suicide.
A recent partnership between the I Am Hope Foundation and MTF Finance (Howick Pakuranga) is expected to see a local school play a key role in improving mental health among our young.
“[Glen Archer and MTF Finance are] helping with financial support to work with youth, such as through programmes at primary and intermediate schools,” the foundation’s partnership manager, Richie Barnett, confirms.
“Partnerships like these can make a significant difference by providing support and resources where they are needed most. Glen’s commitment and support of our cause is commendable and his credibility and ethics are invaluable assets to our mahi.”
Earlier this year, the Times reported that the Mike King founded I Am Hope Foundation is to receive government investment for its Gumboot Friday initiative. However, local investment is also essential in addressing grim statistics, Richie (a Howick local and former sports’ star) believes.
“[New Zealand has] the highest suicide rate in the OECD, predominantly among 15-19 year olds – we’re losing around 11 people a week with about 400 attempted suicides per month,” he adds. “These are horrific stats so we need to adopt real change by listening to our kids.”
Although which school will host the I Am Hope programme is yet to be confirmed, Glen Archer (MTF Finance) says he is happy to assist.
“There’s a strong alignment between MTF’s values and those of I Am Hope. We’re both community focused and on the betterment of everybody we interact with. We’re proud to help.”
For more information about I Am Hope, including ways to lend a hand, visit www.iamhope.org.nz.
