ACON - Fun & Esteem

Written by Mitch Jordan

Running for over 19 years, the workshop – which covers everything from coming out, relationships and HIV awareness – has been attended by thousands of men. Now, young boys can also join in.

Start Making Sense is more than a workshop; it has become a rite of passage for most gay men living in Sydney.

Running for over 19 years, the workshop – which covers everything from coming out, relationships and HIV awareness – has been attended by thousands of men. Now, young boys can also join in.

After the age of consent laws were changed in 2003, ACON’s Fun & Esteem group was able to develop programs for youth. “In 2005 we started a program called ‘School’s Out’,” explains Ben Bavinton, community development team leader. “It focuses on issues like those covered in ‘Start Making Sense’ and also provides a space for younger guys to get to know each other.”

In 2007, Fun & Esteem has launched four new programs. These include: ‘Mates & Dates’, a workshop that explores everything about relationships; ‘Adult Themes’, which offers tips on better sex; ‘Young HIV Positive Men’, a ground-breaking program that brings HIV-affected youth together and ‘Fun & Esteem Forums’ run by volunteers on all topics related to sex, health, relationships and the community.

For further information on Fun & Esteem’s programs call 1800 063 060 or visit www.acon.org.au/youth or youth@acon.org.au