Gerry for president!

Gerry For President!

Welcome back to another episode of Major Convos! This week, we had the privilege of sitting down with the inspiring Gerry Blackwell, the passionate founder and director of the Youth Development Foundation (YDF). Gerry’s dedication to youth and community development is nothing short of extraordinary, and her journey is filled with valuable insights and lessons.

Taking Ownership and Pride in Our Youth

Gerry’s story is a testament to the power of taking ownership and pride in our youth. As she passionately shares, the key to addressing the youth crisis lies in understanding and nurturing their potential without judgment. Her approach is grounded in empathy, and it’s clear that her commitment to making a difference is unwavering.

Transformative Impact: The 98% Success Rate

One of the most impressive aspects of Gerry’s work is the 98% success rate of YDF clients who have seen significant improvements in their lives. This statistic speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the foundation’s programs. Gerry attributes this success to the holistic support and guidance provided by YDF, which empowers young individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Holding Big Corporates Accountable

Gerry isn’t afraid to take bold steps, including holding big corporations accountable. She believes in bringing these entities to the table to seek assistance and solutions for keeping kids off the streets. Her fearless advocacy and strategic partnerships have been instrumental in creating positive change and ensuring that corporations play a role in supporting youth development.

Tough Love and Essential Rules

During our conversation, Gerry shared her two essential rules when taking youth into her care. These rules are rooted in the concept of tough love, which she believes is crucial for effective mentoring. By setting clear expectations and providing unwavering support, Gerry creates an environment where young people can thrive and grow.

Innovative Partnerships with RTOs

The foundation’s innovative approach includes partnering with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to provide wrap-around services. This collaboration ensures that young individuals receive comprehensive support, from education and training to mental health services and career guidance. Gerry’s forward-thinking strategy has been a game-changer in delivering holistic support to the youth.

Accessing Funding for Community Projects

Finally, we delved into the critical topic of accessing funding for community projects. Gerry emphasized the importance of securing financial resources to keep impactful initiatives running. Her insights on navigating the funding landscape are invaluable for anyone looking to make a difference in their community.

Tune In for an Engaging Conversation

This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, practical advice, and Gerry’s no-filter approach to making a difference. Her passion and dedication shine through in every word, making this conversation a must-listen. Tune in to hear more about Gerry Blackwell’s incredible journey and the transformative work of the Youth Development Foundation.

Don’t miss out on this engaging and inspiring episode of Major Convos Streaming Now HERE!