Learning to survive, thrive and save lives

Empowering the Future: YSAR’s Commitment to Youth Leadership and Lifelong Service

At YSAR, we believe in empowering young people to take control of their future and tackle the challenges of a complex world. Today’s youth face unprecedented pressures—rapid technological change, environmental issues, and the impact of social media—but we aim to turn a sense of hopelessness into opportunity. Through our programme, young people transition from adolescence to adulthood, gaining the skills, confidence, and leadership abilities needed to thrive.
Our graduates go on to become well-rounded individuals, making valuable contributions across sectors, from search and rescue to private industry. At YSAR, we share the values of organisations like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award and Outward Bound, understanding the lasting impact of empowering youth through challenge and service.
If you believe in the potential of youth and want to partner with us to shape the future, contact YSAR today. Together, we can make a difference.

Learn more or get involved

Building the Future of Emergency Response Together

At YSAR Trust, we’re not just training the next generation of emergency responders—we’re shaping the future of the SAR and EM sectors by fostering lifelong volunteerism, creating career pathways, and […]

YSAR Featured Articles in NZSAR Link Issue 67

YSAR has been prominently featured in the latest issue of NZSAR Link, Issue 67, released in June 2024. This recognition highlights our continued commitment to training and preparing the next […]

Kaimai Hut Working ‘B’ – ‘A’ Stellar Community Effort

The recent working B at the Kaimai Hut on May 4th, 2024, brought together the YSAR community to make significant improvements, ensuring its continued service for years to come. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and generous donors, the hut now stands better equipped as a vital training venue for Youth, SAR Emergency Management, and more.

Investing in the Future: Strengthening Emergency Management Through Youth Development Programs

This research paper is driven by a primary objective: to emphasize the critical importance of investing in long-term youth development programs designed explicitly for the field of emergency management. These programs serve as a potent mechanism for nurturing a future workforce that possesses the essential skills, knowledge, and mindset required to excel in this dynamic profession. To illustrate the potential of such programs, this study employs the Youth Search and Rescue (YSAR) program in New Zealand as a comprehensive case study. It not only showcases the remarkable accomplishments of YSAR but also offers a detailed analysis of its influence on the youth participants and the broader emergency management sector. Through a meticulous examination of the contributions of youth, the significance of diversity, the enduring dedication of lifelong volunteers, the positive aspects of youth culture, and the effectiveness of participatory learning environments, this paper aims to underscore the imperative of adopting and expanding similar initiatives worldwide. By doing so, we can bolster readiness and resilience in the face of increasingly intricate and unpredictable threats.

YSAR Geographical Information Systems – GIS for Schools Program

GIS in Schools

The YSAR GIS for Schools Program offers students access to valuable GIS (Geographic Information Systems) resources. The program is provided through Eagle Technology Group and includes an ArcGIS Pro Advance license worth $6500 NZD per student per year. Students can access it at https://ysarnewzealand.maps.arcgis.com/. The ESRI GIS for Schools program offers additional benefits, such as cutting-edge technology, hands-on learning opportunities, educational resources, and collaborative opportunities.

One standout feature of the ArcGIS Pro Advance license is the ability to create captivating Story Maps, which help students convey information visually and interactively. Story Maps enhance projects, encourage real-world applications, and prepare students for future career opportunities.

Overall, the ESRI GIS for Schools program equips YSAR students with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in GIS and spatial analysis. Interested students can find more information at https://www.esri.com/training/catalog/search/.

Thank you for choosing to donate to YSAR

YSAR is classified as a Donor Organisation and your donations are tax deductible – please make contact for further information