Active Positive Minds Project

The Active Positive Minds Project, funded by the Million Hours Fund, has been making a real difference for young people in the Eyre Monsell area. This initiative was designed not only to provide a safe and supportive space but also to give local young people access to new opportunities that build confidence, skills, and resilience.

At the heart of the project was a wide range of multi-sport activities. Young people were encouraged to get active and try out sports such as tennis, basketball, and football, alongside something more unique—lacrosse, Canada’s oldest sport. These sessions gave participants the chance to discover new talents, develop teamwork, and enjoy positive experiences with their peers.

The project also recognised the importance of wellbeing and support beyond sport. Young people could access employment guidance, further education pathways, and counselling services—all aimed at helping them take the next steps in their personal and professional lives.

A particularly popular addition to the programme was the hot cob food initiative, ensuring that participants had access to warm, nourishing food during activities. This not only helped meet a practical need but also created a welcoming, community-focused environment where young people felt valued and cared for.

Importantly, the funding also played a role in acting as a deterrent against anti-social behaviour in the community. By providing structured, positive activities and safe spaces for young people, the project helped reduce the risk of disengagement and offered meaningful alternatives that encouraged positive choices.

By combining sport, personal development, mental health support, and community care, the Active Positive Minds Project has created an environment where young people can feel empowered, supported, and motivated to build brighter futures for themselves and their community.