Breakfast, Boxing and Belonging: Harland’s Story

Amber Griffin

It’s 6 o’clock on a school morning, and 11-year-old Harland is out of bed and excited to start the day, waiting to get picked up by the PCYC Eastern Suburbs bus to attend the Fit for Life youth program.

“It helps me in the mornings, so then I get motivated for school. They help us with boxing, they make us breakfast and then they take us to school, they do a lot at PCYC,” said Harland.

Fit for Life is offered for free at PCYC clubs across NSW, designed to get 10 to 17-year-olds active in life and engaged in their communities. In partnership with NSW Police Youth Engagement Officers, PCYC staff run morning sports and activities, while mentoring participants one-on-one.

For Harland, PCYC is about more than boxing and breakfast, it’s like a second family. “I like the community, coming here every week is really fun because we make a lot of friends and we’re getting exercise. The staff they’re really funny and they motivate us a lot, they’re really kind and we stick together. I feel like I belong here.”

Reflecting on the last 12 months with PCYC, Harland says he’s developed more skills and friendships, a change that his Dad Mark said has positively impacted his son’s life.

“Harland is much more engaged in school, his confidence has grown, and he’s busier, always getting active and involved in activities. His older siblings grew up with a connection to PCYC, and his younger siblings are excited to get started when they’re old enough, it runs in the family.” Said Mark.

Club Manager Tara Coleman said, “It’s a safe space for everyone who attends, participants love coming to the program, it improves their mental health, their physical health and their confidence. It wouldn’t be possible without our donors, partners and supporters.”

NSW Police Youth Engagement Officer, Constable Alexandra Budd said, “I have witnessed significant positive development in Harland’s confidence, attitude, and discipline, which has grown week to week.”

“The combination of physical health, routine, mentorship, and a nutritious start to the day provides a powerful foundation. The program demonstrates the vital importance of early intervention with young people, to be able to instill respect, resilience, and healthy habits at an age when it matters most.” Said Alexandra.

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Breakfast, Boxing and Belonging: Harland’s Story

Amber Griffin

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