In a new study, the Graeme Dingle Foundation has found its programmes to have a staggering $10.50 return for every dollar invested.

The study, undertaken by leading New Zealand economic consultancy firm Infometrics, is a tool which quantifies the social and financial benefits of the charity’s suite of programmes using economic calculations which represent both value and cost to society.

The Graeme Dingle Foundation is a youth development charity that facilitates school and community programmes for nearly 30,000 Kiwis aged from five to 24 each year and has helped more than 350,000 young Kiwis be more confident, find purpose and direction, and achieve success.  

Regional manager Dan Allen-Gordon says the Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty reaches more than 3800 youth each week through their proven programmes Kiwi Can, Stars, Career Navigator and Project K – helping young people to build confidence, tackle life's challenges and build bright futures.

With a 30-year history, the foundation’s programmes have long made an impact on youth, enhancing wellbeing, engagement, and commitment to society through increased aspirations, positive trajectories, and pipelines to the workforce - ultimately benefiting our country’s economy long-term.

“Traditionally, measuring the economic benefit of our programmes has been difficult, as programme outcomes can span a lifetime for participants," says Graeme Dingle Foundation CEO Jo Malcolm- Black.

"However, understanding our impact through the support of Infometrics means that we can identify the true economic benefits and contributions they make to society showing just how critical this work is for our country long-term.

“We are thrilled to know there is a substantial return from our programmes. With a return of $10.50 for every dollar invested, supporters of the foundation and its programmes know that, for example, for $100,000 invested, their organisation is providing more than $1,000,000 return to New Zealand’s economy.”

Jo says these results are a direct reflection of the Graeme Dingle Foundation’s strong research and development commitments which ensure that, with the changing landscape of our country, their programmes adapt to reflect the greatest needs of young people.

“We are incredibly proud of this, and the impact it demonstrates for the nearly 30,000 young people who benefit from our programmes each year.”

For more information, visit: www.dinglefoundation.org.nz