Max Potential pairs young people with volunteer coaches to develop their skills, complete a community service project that will benefit their local area, and obtain a Certificate I in Volunteering.

Fourteen young people from five local high schools have taken part in the 22-week program.

Kurri Kurri High School student Rhys Field worked with his coach Peter Cook to devise a computer program that will help parents to assist Year 8 students with their maths homework.

The program involves three online quizzes – one for the child, one for the parent, and one for them to work on together.

Rhys said his project aimed to get more parents involved in their child’s learning and making sure they are actually doing their homework.

The project is already paying off – 15 students have used the program and all have shown improvement.

Mr Cook, a project manager at Centennial Coal, said being part of Max Potential was a great experience for participants and coaches.

“Rhys is making a difference in the peoples’ lives,” he said.

“Putting back into the community can be very satisfying, and it’s also fun.

“When you help people you feel good.”

Max Potential program manager Julie Stevens said this Friday’s showcase will celebrate the journeys of the young adults who have taken part, and their contribution to the community through their projects.

“It is really important for our young adults to see as many people at showcase as possible; the community showing they support young people and care about their contribution to the community is a critical element of the program,” she said.

The showcase will be held at Cessnock Leagues Club on Friday, November 17 from 3pm to 5pm (with the official presentation from 3.45pm). All are welcome.

Light refreshments will be served. RSVP to julie@maxpotential.com.au.

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