FAQ's
Why do these grants exist?
The idea for RISE was based on a programme in Ontario, Canada called Dare to Dream. We heard about the programme and thought it was a great idea, and saw the impact of the various projects on the young people there. There wasn't anything like it in New Zealand and we think it's a great way to promote youth mental health and what better way than young people doing it themselves! This is the first time these grants have been offered and we look forward to seeing your ideas.
Who can apply?
You can apply if you:
- Are 20 years of age or under on the application closing date
- Live in New Zealand
- Have an idea for a project that meets our criteria and conditions
What do you mean by youth led?
A young person under 20 comes up with the project idea, fills out the application form, leads and carries out the project themselves or with their group.
What can my mentor do?
A requirement to receive a grant is to have a mentor/whakaruruhau to support the young person in writing their application and supporting their project as well as be responsible for the money. The organisation the mentor/whakaruruhau work's for will receive the money and administer the money when it is needed.
The mentor can't come up with the project idea or lead it nor fill out the application form for the young person (other then the mentor section).
Can I submit my application now?
We have one or two application rounds each year. Watch this website for application opening and closing dates.
What do you mean by groups?
By 'groups' we mean two or more young people who plan to work together to develop their idea, and carry out their project.
How much money can I get?
Individual applicants can receive up to $1000 if you apply for an individual grant, and up to $5000 for a group grant for a project that promotes mental health awareness. You can also choose to receive up to $200 worth of Westfield vouchers for a koha which will come out of your grant money. You will receive this once you've handed in your final project report.
What things does this grant fund?
It could include:
- things you need to bring your project to life (i.e. production costs, art supplies, food at events, prizes, equipment rentals, printing costs for promotional materials etc.)
- koha(gift) for guest speakers at events
- the cost of training that is related to the project
What things does this grant NOT fund?
- Capital expenses (e.g. rent, electricity, phones, etc)
- Projects that have already occurred
- Overseas travel
- Anything that looks inflated (too expensive) in the budget
It will look better if, when looking for quotes, you've tried to find the cheapest price for things. Also feel free to look for donations to support costs.
How can I get a grant?
Follow the step by step circle buttons at the top of this web page. The application form that you need to complete is under the Apply! Button, however you will also need to check that your project meets the criteria and that you have a mentor to support you over the course of the project.
When can I apply?
You can only apply between the grant opening and closing dates. Keep an eye on this website as it will let you know when grant applications are open and when the next deadline is. We will not accept applications or requests for funding outside of this time.
Does everyone who meets the criteria get a a grant?
We only have a certain amount of money to give out, so unfortunately not all applicants will be successful. Everyone recieves feedback about how to improve their application or idea.
Who decides if I receive a grant?
The RISE Team (which has a young person on it) will read your application and decide if you will receive a grant. Our decision will be based on how your project fits our criteria, and how relevant it is to promoting youth mental health awareness in comparison to other applications.
Who should my mentor/whakaruruhau be?
Ideally your mentor/whakaruruhau would be someone who has some experience and knowledge of youth mental health.
For example: Youth Workers, Teachers, School Guidance Counsellors, Social Workers.
We encourage you to make an effort to find a mentor/whakaruruhau yourself. Contact some youth organisations in your area if you don't know of anyone.
Can I still apply even if I don't have a mentor/whakaruruhau?
If you have an idea for a project and you don't have a mentor/whakaruruhau, we can help you find one. Contact us for information on how to link up with a mentor/whakaruruhau in your area. You need to do this before you send in a grant application form.
Do I have to be interviewed to receive a grant?
No we will not be interviewing anyone who applies for a grant, we will decide based on your application form and will contact you if we have any questions.
If my application is accepted, what happens next?
We will let you know whether or not your application is successful about 2 weeks after the application deadline.
You can expect to hear back from us within 2 weeks of the closing date. If your application is successful you and your mentor will receive a letter with the next steps and information about the invoicing process. The organisation will be responsible for managing your funding.
Do I need my parent/guardian's consent to apply for a grant and carry out a project?
If you are under 16 you will need their signature on your application form along with your own.
Can I reapply for the grant again if my application is not accepted?
Yes. If your grant is not accepted the first time you apply, we'll give you feedback on why it was not successful, and what other things you might want to consider for when you apply next time. If there are just some small things about your project you might need to change, then your grant maybe accepted as long as those things are changed.
I've already recieved a RISE grant before - can I apply for another one again?
Yes as long as you complete the current application form by the grant closing deadline and still meet the criteria and conditions.
Where does the money come from?
Most of our work at The Werry Centre, including RISE, is funded by the Ministry of Health.
What's the Werry Centre?
RISE is a project of The Werry Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health workforce development programme. The Werry Centre aims to increase the numbers and help develop the people that work with young people with mental health issues. For example we organise training and write documents (after talking to lots of people) about the services and people that work in child and adolescent mental health and alcohol and drug services in New Zealand.