Our youth program is dedicated to empowering young people in our rural community on Islay by providing a safe and inclusive space to grow, learn, and thrive. Our mission is to offer additional support
Estimated Price
30000
MYCOS works hard to break down rural living barriers by offering a robust timetable of activities, employability, and support services. Along with running clubs, music groups, arts & crafts, etc., we also provide a free service for marginalised groups such as young carers, families in difficulty & young people with disabilities. MYCOS would like to continue and expand our outreach services, providing opportunities for those who are experiencing hardships. By allowing staff to receive additional training, MYCOS would enable MYCOS to offer new and exciting sessions for community members, as well as continuous professional development. This funding would be used to provide the following sessions, as well as specialized training opportunities for staff :
Bowmore Outreach Primary Club
Keills Outreach Primary Club
Port Ellen Primary Club
Living rurally, the children & young people of Islay face many disadvantages and inequalities due to issues such as limited public transport, lack of support services, lack of further training, etc. The rurality of Islay, which has a mixed-age population, is why MYCOS does not specialise in one field but looks to address children's and young people’s needs individually. Our youth clubs provide a safe, inclusive environment where young people can build skills, form meaningful connections, and access guidance and mentorships. For children on Islay whose families are experiencing poverty, these clubs offer the opportunity to break the cycle of disadvantages by providing resources and opening doors to new experiences. Our youth clubs have become vital in providing an outlet for those needing a space to have the opportunities and time for them not to worry about the challenges they and their families face at home, and have that time to take part in age-appropriate activities.
Our project will bring positive changes by addressing critical needs specific to Islay children by empowering them to thrive within their community and home. We will provide access to educational resources and skills development to help young people explore their potential for future success. By providing a safe space for young people to build connections, this will enable them to feel a sense of belonging and reduce any social isolation they may be experiencing, additionally by supporting the younger generation this opens opportunities for the families gin additional help to reduce any poverty and to breakdown any barriers they are experiencing for personal growth and education. By working collaboratively with other organisations on Islay, we will be able to maximise our reach to those in need and create a mutual, long-term support system for the residents. All of this will provide emotional support, aiding in reducing stress and anxiety, which are related to rural poverty.
