Man Alive News Spring 2009
Download print version of Spring 2009 Newsletter [114 KB PDF]
An organisation needs to constantly reflect on how it can achieve its vision. Central to Man
Alive’s vision is working with men to build communities that work for everyone. We know we
can’t do this in isolation. Significantly, we have begun discussions with Viviana and Waitakere
Abuse and Trauma Counselling Service to consider how we might achieve this together.
You may have received the community release on 14 September announcing we are in
conversation with these agencies to consider a range of options from closer collaboration on
specific projects through to merging the agencies. It is exciting to consider the huge benefits
that could come from these discussions, including an ability to work with family violence
incidents in a more coordinated way from the start of the process through to its conclusion,
enhancing our ability to work with whanau and the synergies that can come from combining our
respective clinical strengths.
Man Alive was formed to promote through education, therapy and advocacy the well-being of
men, male youth and boys. Our commitment to this ethos will underlie what we bring to the
discussions. Whatever final form we arrive at, a more unified and holistic approach to working
with families and communities can only help us to achieve our broader vision. In my view, its
time we got really serious about working together in meaningful ways and the immediately
positive community response to this initiative suggests the time is right.
We will be holding a meeting at Man Alive at 6pm, Friday 23 October. You are welcome to
attend to hear more about this project.
Chris Davidson, Chief Executive.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
FREE ASSESSMENTS AND SUBSIDISED COUNSELLING
Man Alive will be offering free assessments to self-referring men beginning 1 October.
We have recognised for some time that our services were difficult to access for some, but
funding restricted our ability to address this. However, we have established a limited fund with
the aim of Man Alive not needing to turn a client away for financial reasons.
In the first instance, clients will be offered a free assessment. Following the assessment, and
depending upon needs, ability to pay and other funding available, a further subsidy may be
available to assist with ongoing group programme, counselling or other forms of support.
SPOTLIGHT
In this issue we turn the spotlight onto Carl Chapman, Man Alive
Youth Counsellor:
Gidday, my name is Carl Chapman.
I joined the Man Alive youth team at the end of last year. The “Boy’s
Alive” group work is a realised dream for me fulfilling a passion for
working with youth; supporting boys with behavioural difficulties,
relationship challenges and self esteem issues.
I am the father of three beautiful children; Jessica, Jacob and Michaela,
who are a constant source of joy and many challenges as I share their
journey through the teenage years. My interests include meditation, chi
kung, yoga tai chi and kung fu.
My inspiration for working with youth has been my relationship with my
children and their friends. A defining moment for me was taking my son
Jacob on a trip to the South Island; kayaking round Abel Tasman national
park, caving just outside of Greymouth and swimming with the dolphins
at Akaroa. We had a blast and it formed a whole new dimension to our
relationship.
I am driven to help boys and young men through supporting their needs,
building their confidence and realizing their potential. I am thrilled to be
part of the team at Man Alive and I look forward to offering our services
to our wonderful young men and boys.
(For more information on our youth programmes, contact our Youth
Team on 835 0509)
OUTCOMES
It is hugely rewarding reading the evaluation comments from the men
who complete our programmes, we thought we would share some of
those comments in this issue:
This has been a very good experience for me, helped me a lot about making
the right decisions and I think I can keep it up, I have also been helping my
mates;
My kids have enjoyed the changes in me. So has my partner. Its opened my
eyes and my heart more to know that I would love to spend the rest of my
life with them and to treat people how you would like to be treated;
The group is definitely making me more accepting of other people, situations
etc, where previously I would have lost it. It is definitely helping to balance
my life;
My children and wife are happier because they feel I am more aware of my
emotions and can see a better man;
Great group and the facilitators are always happy to help us. I have learnt
lots to help in my life and future relationships;
The programme has made me awake and aware to my attitude and lifestyle.
It really works.
IN BRIEF
MAN ALIVE OFFERS THE FOLLOWING SERVICES
Living Without Violence and Te Ara Taumata Ora
A unique approach to non-violence courses. Our programmes will not blame, shame or judge
men, however they will be encouraged to take responsibility for their violence and understand
there is no excuse for abuse.
Individual Counselling
All men have times when they ‘hit the wall’ … we’re here to help them move though it.
Counselling for men by men and family and couple counselling.
Youth programmes
Boys Alive, an action packed group programme and one-on-one counselling. Helping youth
understand and devlop personal responsibility.
Men in Relationships
A 12 week course that could change your family and work life. A course designed to help you
deal with stress and conflict. It will help you come closer to your family. Programmes in
Manukau East and Waitakere.
Mens Change and Support Group
An open, easy-going group of ordinary guys who have had crisis and change in the past,
helping men who are going through hard times now.
Room Hire
Man Alive is based in Cranwell House, situated in park like grounds in the central Henderson
shopping area. There is extensive parking across the road and we are a two minute walk to
Westcity, Westwave and the Henderson shops. We offer a range of room options at affordable
rates to community groups, including our new ‘Garden Room’ which is separate to our main
building.
For further information on any of the above, please phone us on 835 0509 or email
info@manalive.org.nz
The great work our team has been doing has been made possible through the generous
support of the community, including recent grants from:
- JR McKenzie
- Waitakere City Council
- Waitakere Licensing Trust
DONATIONS
Thanks for supporting Man Alive. Our programmes help many men and families in our
community work through some of their toughest times. Please contact us for information on
how to further help us in our work.
Is there a person or organisation you think would be interested in receiving this newsletter? Point them to the ManAlive contact form, where they can subscribe.
