Student-led org receives $30,000 grant to fight cyberbullying
Student-led org receives $30,000 grant to fight cyberbullying. Jetstar today announced that Sticks ‘n Stones New Zealand as the latest recipient of a $30,000 Jetstar Flying Start grant, made up of cash and travel on Jetstar.
Student-led org receives $30,000 grant to fight cyberbullying
Through Central Otago REAP (Rural Education Activities Program), Sticks ‘n Stones was founded in 2013 by a group of 25 young people with first-hand experience of cyberbullying.
These young people have contributed hundreds of volunteer hours each year to help change the acceptance of bullying and make a difference in other students’ lives.
Now, with over 50 teens onboard, the group is excited to be able to use their Jetstar Flying Start grant to expand their initiative nationally.
The $15,000 cash component of the grant will be used to support the organisation’s interactive board game that promotes face-to-face discussion around bullying and facilitates learning when it comes to problem solving and life skills. Sticks ‘n Stones hope to further develop the game into an online app that can be implemented into schools nationwide.
The $15,000 flight component of the grant will enable the students to travel to Melbourne for the National Centre Against Bullying Conference. Additionally, students from across the country will be flown to Otago for programme immersion and mentoring, to help other teens roll out the Sticks ‘n Stones programme at their own schools.
Grant Kerr, Head of Jetstar of New Zealand, said it was inspiring to see a group of young people get so involved in the community and make a positive difference to other students’ lives.
“We’re thrilled to be able to help Sticks ‘n Stones, an organisation completely run by students, combat the serious issue of cyberbullying.”
Sticks ‘n Stones Project Facilitator Karla Sanders said a survey conducted by the organisation showed over 87% of young people believe cyberbullying is an issue for them and their peers.-
“Bullying is not a normal part of growing up and can cause serious harm to the bullied and the bully,” Ms Sanders said.
“It’s important that people realise this isn’t an issue that just occurs at school, and it can’t be left to schools to solve alone. Families and the wider community also need to get involved, providing environments where children can learn that bullying is not acceptable and how they can form healthy, respectful relationships with others.”
The Jetstar Flying Start programme invites community groups and organisations to apply for a grant of $30,000 to be used to fund a project that will enrich the lives of people in their local community. The entries are reviewed by a panel of judges, who select a deserving community group each quarter.
