If it wasn’t for Youth Mentoring, Jeremy’s* life could be very different.

His challenging home life – living with a struggling single parent and three siblings – was spilling over into school. He lacked confidence, often had emotional outbursts, and felt that school was simply not a place for him.

That’s where John* came in.

John, a trained volunteer with the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre’s (HBNC) Youth Mentoring Program, began meeting with Jeremy regularly. Over the past year, their connection has transformed Jeremy’s outlook on school and on himself.

Today, Jeremy feels confident. He’s forming positive connections. He’s handling challenges with calm and resilience.

That’s the difference having someone in your corner can make.

HBNC Families, Children & Youth Manager, Sheenah Heinonen, said stories like Jeremy’s are powerful reminders of how much impact one caring adult can have.

“Right now, there are young people across the Fraser Coast who just need someone to believe in them,” Ms Heinonen said.

“Our volunteer mentors provide stability, encouragement and a listening ear — and that support can completely shift a young person’s sense of what’s possible.

“We are calling on community members to step forward and help ensure every young person has someone in their corner.”

HBNC’s Youth Mentoring Program pairs students aged 7–17 with trained volunteer mentors.

Volunteers meet with their mentee weekly during school hours, offering guidance, positive role modelling, and a supportive presence. All training is provided, and mentors receive ongoing support from the HBNC team.

With demand growing across Fraser Coast schools, HBNC is seeking more volunteers to ensure no young person misses out on the support they need.

Learn more about Youth Mentoring

Become a volunteer

*Names have been changed for privacy.