Evolve Wellington Youth Service: Celebrating two decades of service

Evolve Wellington Youth Service, a Youth One Stop Shop (YOSS), are proudly celebrating two decades of service to rangatahi (youth) aged 10–24 years old in the Wellington region.

Since its inception in 2004, Evolve has played a pivotal role in providing essential opportunities, services and resources to young people in the heart of Wellington.

Founded by youth for youth, Evolve grew from a dream of a wraparound service run by young people. It has now since ‘evolved’ into a hub where rangatahi can access holistic care for free and without judgement.

Evolve facilitates access to primary health care, social support, counselling, and skill development, —all within a youth-friendly environment under one roof.

Celebrating the 20 Years of service is an acknowledgement of all the people involved with supporting Evolve’s mission to empower young people to thrive as their authentic selves.

Evolve Manager Stewart Clark said, “the guiding whakatauki in marking this season in our life has been ‘Titiro whakamuri kia kitea ai a mua’ (We must look behind in order to see what is ahead).”

“Evolve is here today because a passionate group of rangatahi saw the need for wraparound youth-centred services in Wellington, and then turned their passion into action.”

“Since that time, we've lived up to our name and continued to adapt and evolve to the interests and needs of rangatahi, and we're excited to carry on this kaupapa into our future.”

“Evolve would like to specially acknowledge and thank every staff member; admin, youth workers, primary health clinicians, coaches, programme coordinators, social workers, counsellors, and volunteers who have contributed to impacting the 4000+ rangatahi in Wellington,” said Clark.

Tū Ora Compass Health Chief Executive Justine Thorpe said this milestone and celebration is significant and is a chance to promote services available to our rangatahi.

“YOSS services, including EVOLVE, provide an essential service to our youth who may not otherwise decide to, or be able to access certain primary care services. Over the years, it’s been a pleasure to watch the service grow to where it is today and look forward to seeing the ongoing hard work they do into the future” she said.

Their dedication to the mission is the foundation of Evolve’s impact on young people’s lives in the Wellington region. This also contributes to Evolve’s overall success, whilst growing and adapting their services over the years. For that reason, Evolve would like to extend their gratitude to all everyone who has provided their time and services for the organisation.

“Evolve extends heartfelt gratitude to its current and historic funders, without your support this beautiful mahi would not be possible. Navigating the funding landscape for youth services can be complex. Priorities shift, and resources remain limited. Despite these obstacles, Evolve remains resilient, leveraging community partnerships and innovative approaches to journey with rangatahi upholding their mana and resilience,” concluded Clark.

As Evolve continues to thrive, it invites community members, businesses, and philanthropic organisations to join hands in ensuring a brighter future for Wellington’s youth.

EVOLVE services are available to Rangatahi aged 10 – 24, and include mental health support, groups and programmes, sexual health, primary healthcare, youth workers and social support. The facilities are free, and are located at Level 2, James Smith Building, 65 Cuba Street, Te Aro.