Glen Eden children rewarded for helping

For a part-time worker Louise Grevel packs a lot of job satisfaction into her short week.

As Waitakere’s Junior Neighbourhood Support (JNS) coordinator a large chunk of her role is spent rewarding children who go that extra yard to help the community.

Localist stopped off with Louise on one of her regular school visits, this time at Prospect Primary School in Glen Eden.

Louise was there with new Glen Eden community constable Dorothy Iosia to present certificates of recognition and sponsored goody bags to four deserving pupils, Pale Ioane-Afa, Jason Reihana, Rosaline Latuila and Harmony Naamanu.

From reporting a lost dog, to helping a special needs child and recycling, the children had all gone out of their way for their community or family.

Prize winners can be nominated by school teachers, principals, parents, shop-owners, or anyone else who notices a child who embodies the JNS spirit.

“It’s all about encouraging children to make the right choices and do good things in their neighbourhood and school,” says Louise.

“It also helps to foster positive relationships with police and the fire department.”

Winners are rewarded for a variety of community-minded deeds including speaking politely to people in the community, helping the elderly with their wheelie bins, picking up litter or reporting graffiti to the school.

Louise says one of the other most exciting aspects of her role is the planning of a JNS Big Day Out which also honours a junior achiever of the year.

On the most recent event she took children from participating schools on an all expenses paid trip to Rainbows End.

“We got to hang out with a Police or Fire Officer and enjoy the rides all day long.”