History
The concept for a youth specific health service in Wellington began in 2000, led by a community paediatrician who approached various youth organisations in the area to gather ideas and consult locals on youth health needs.
A few other youth one-stop-shops had already been established in other parts of the country and they were asked for advice on how to get started.
The project was very community driven and particularly youth driven. This meant that young people would be able to plan and shape their own concepts to make it a truly for youth, by youth service.
After a huge effort by all involved and lobbying to local and central government for funding and support, funding was granted to the newly established Te Whanganui-a-tara Youth Development Trust in 2003.
Staff were hired and the venue was fitted out. The service officially opened on June 3rd 2004.
The service has experienced rapid growth since we first opened our doors, with new services and activities being developed constantly.
Evolve continues to be youth driven, with 50% of the trust board aged under 26 and a team of young people employed within the service.
Young people who use the service are consulted regularly to ensure that they can have their say on how things are run and which activities they would like to see.