Aussie rock legend mentors youth at Social Futures clubhouse

Ray later went on to teach music in schools, but heard about the Clubhouse Network and now mentors upcoming musicians one afternoon a week in Ballina.  

“It’s so important to give back,” Ray said.  

“These young ones are keen to learn and it’s amazing what you know and what you can pass on. 

“One of the most incredible things about being a mentor is watching young people grow in confidence and believe in themselves. They begin to understand what they themselves can do and give to the community and to the world.” 

Social Futures CEO, Tony Davies, said Social Futures is keen to hear from people with expertise in areas such as music, film, robotics, coding, electronics, computer science, creative arts, animation or photography in the Bathurst, Lismore or Ballina regions. 

“If you have an interest in any of these fields, then consider sharing your skills with young people aged 12 to 17 years at the Clubhouses,” said Davies. 

“But really, any skills or experience you have to share will be valued.”  

Davies highlighted that there was a need for mentors who could commit to a couple of hours a day for a day or two per week during school terms. 

“Our mentors play a vital role in challenging these young minds to think critically, develop new concepts, and find the technologies to bring their ideas to life,” he said, “but it can also just be as simple as asking a young person how their day was and sharing a cup a tea.” 

Social Futures is a Centrelink approved volunteer organisation meaning dedicated volunteering hours can count towards Centrelink payments.  

If you would like to learn more about being a mentor, visit the Social Futures website. 

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