HISTORY

Introduction

Youth Enterprise Trust (YET) is an independent, charitable organisation which helps motivate and empower young people in need to discover their self worth.

The transition to adulthood is often a time of confusion, doubt and fear. Loss of direction, unemployment, fractured families, and sometimes abuse, all add to the pressure that can lead young people badly off course and even to despair

Using the land as a vehicle YET assists young people through offering personally challenging preventative, vocational and leadership programs that enable them to reconnect with themselves and community.

It is crucial that our young people find a sense of purpose and go on to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

History

YET was established in 1991, when founder Lloyd Hancock put into action his own passionate belief that every individual has their own personal and vocational gifts. His vision, dedication and the commitment of all those who work with and contribute to YET, have encouraged many young people to help themselves, to take responsibility and to believe in their own abilities and strengths.

For 17 years, YET has run a benchmark ‘Wilderness Experience’ for youth who are at risk, but ready for change. Through our wilderness experiences YET has seen the critical need to reach more young people and at an earlier age. The truth is today’s youth face far greater challenges and at a younger age than ever before. For many young people, help is needed long before behaviours, attitudes and beliefs are set; before lasting damage is inflicted.

As a result YET acquired 'Woodstock' in 2003.
Woodstock, the home of YET, is a 300 acre farm bordered by the Albert River and at the base of Tamborine Mountain, in South East Queensland. Our vision is to see Woodstock as a vibrant youth, community and environmental space. 

From this base, YET have developed a range of complimentary preventative, vocational and leadership programs. Based principally at Woodstock, these programs build off core strengths; our knowledge, our people and our land, and are integrally linked to the Wilderness experiences objective of helping young people in the transition to a healthy and self reliant adulthood. 

As an independent, charitable organisation YET relies on the community’s support to continue empowering and creating opportunity for young people in need. We rely heavily on contributions from individuals and business communities to ensure our intervention work continues to prevent social and financial burdens for communities.

Our Program Model

YET works with youth in such a way that they do not consider themselves involved in therapeutic intervention. Our unique approach of using land to help facilitate internal shifts is powerful and highly effective. Underpinned by a 'Strengths Based' approach YET is one of the few youth organisations in Australia implementing these distinctive programs.

YET's approach to programming is objectives led and involves intensive client consultation and the establishment of pre and post program evaluations. Our programming expertise combined with quality staff and the fantastic natural resources that Woodstock offers, enables us to provide a flexible, rich and tailored programming approach.

YET program graduates leave with a clearer sense of identity, place, self worth and self belief.