Dan Allen-Gordon -
Graeme Dingle Foundation Project K
Our guest speaker on Tuesday was Dan Allen- Gordon from the Graeme Dingle Foundation.
Anne Dunphy introduced Dan to the meeting by taking us through the history of and evolution of of Mentoring Programs. He gave us a brief history of mentoring in New Zealand, starting with the rep program in the 1990s.
After his introduction, Dan who has decades of experience with the Dingle Foundation and Kiwi Can explained the evolution of the Dingle Foundation and its various programs, including Kiwi Can and Stars. He discussed the impact of Kiwi Can on reducing stand-downs and behaviour incidents in schools.
Dan went on to mention Project K, a three-stage program for disengaged youth, started by Graham Dingle. He then shared success stories of young people who have benefited from Project K, including those who have returned to school and achieved academic and career success. He highlighted the importance of mentoring in the program and the long-term impact on participants.
Dan went on to talk of the challenges faced by some participants, such as mental health issues and family problems, and how the program helps them overcome these challenges.
Concluding Dan told us that community engagement and the role of mentors in the program is incredibly important. He also mentioned the economic impact of the program, stating that every dollar invested in the program is worth $10.50 to the New Zealand economy.
The series of questions that followed Dan’s address showed the interest that members have in Project K and its outcomes was significant.