"Many of the mentors have been with our students through some of the toughest seasons of their lives."

We often get letters from our referrers which remind us why we do what we do. So we thought we'd share them with you too. Here's one -

"Over the last past three years, we have partnered with Upside, as they have provided invaluable support for some of our most vulnerable students.

We have watched firsthand the incredible impact that the Upside mentors have had in the lives of these young rangatahi. Many of the mentors have been with our students through some of the toughest seasons of their lives. We have witnessed how the role these mentors play has been like an anchor or a calm in the storm for these young people - a safe, consistent presence, in the midst of some pretty chaotic times.

We don't know where these young people might have been today had it not been for their relationships with their mentors who have been advocates, supporters, trustworthy confidants, listening ears, voices of wisdom and of immense care.

All the current research around neuroscience and adolescent brain development tells us that all a young person needs is connection with one safe adult in their lives to rewire a lifetime of trauma or adverse childhood experiences. For this reason, we know beyond a shadow of a doubt, just how valuable the service is that Upside provides.

We will never stop being supporters of their mahi and will do everything we can to work alongside them in the future on behalf of the wellbeing of our rangatahi."