LFC Foundation's Kicks Targeted Coordinator, Paul Wright nominated Curtis for the Champion of the Month award due to the great determination and commitment he has shown on the Kicks Targeted Programme.

Curtis joined our Kicks Targeted programme at a particularly difficult part of his life. He has had to navigate a number of issues with very few people he could turn to for support and at times, this has led to challenging decisions and behaviours. However, through 1-2-1 sessions with Paul, Curtis has been provided with support to discuss his challenges and to think positively about the future he wants for himself.

Paul explained “The whole purpose of the Kicks Targeted programme, is to support young people in a time of need, helping them to look at past negative behaviours and to offer advice regarding alternatives, to help young people move forward in a more positive light and reach their full potential.”

In the sessions Curtis and Paul built a trusting professional relationship and made a space where Curtis could open up and share the challenges he was facing. In time Curtis was able, to share his personal aspirations for the future. Through these sessions, Paul has learned so much about Curtis’s ambitions and the direction he wants for himself saying “it is quite clear to see how he enjoys the opportunity to talk about his future aspirations.”

Curtis shared that he wants to become an accountant and has taken several positive steps to achieve this. He has done a lot of work to reflect on how difficult issues and challenges have affected him in the past, and to learn alternative behaviours and skills to make positive decisions in the future. He is now enrolled on a business course at college and has made longer term plans to enrol on an accountancy course. Through the support of Kicks Targeted and Paul, Curtis has a greater understanding of his many personal qualities and has shown a strong determination to pursue his goals.

Paul said “Since I started my engagement with Curtis, he has had to deal with quite a few issues. However, he has in my opinion turned a massive corner regarding him getting back on track and looking to the future in a more positive light. He is a good lad with a good heart, who deserves a chance to shine and pursue his dreams.”

Curtis said, "I really look forward to my weekly 1-2-1 sessions with Paul. Just being able to talk openly without being judged is a massive help to me."