The district's youth groups and businesses will partner up with the Thames Coromandel District Council for a new project focussed on young people.

The establishment of the Value for Youth project has gained momentum following council's adoption of its Youth Strategy in 2013.

TCDC has established the Value for Youth project in partnership with Coromandel based youth groups and businesses this week. Photo: File

The strategy aims to bring agencies together to share information, identify and eliminate gaps in service provisions, plus create opportunities for young people in the district.

Project lead Marlene Perry says one gap is in the volunteering sector and council is currently training a group of volunteers aged 12 to 24 years of age.

They will eventually go on and train other young people from around the Coromandel, says Marlene.

'We really want our young people to know that we value their input and they are an important part of our community.

'A mentoring programme is an inspirational way for young people to see what their peers are doing around the Coromandel.”

Marlene says council selected the core starter group with help from networks around the district.

The group includes youth volunteers for the NZ Fire Service, SPCA and St John, and members who are involved in sport coaching or working with DOC on a variety of projects.

It also provides a best practice focus in the volunteer community, such as ensuring organisations that offer volunteer positions provide role descriptions and carry out background checks.

For more information about the Value For Youth project contact Marlene Perry on 07-868-0200 or email marlene.perry@tcdc.govt.nz

To learn more about TCDC's Youth Strategy visit www.tcdc.govt.nz/youth