Young Marists

The Hugh Green Foundation proudly champions the Young Marists Neighbours Programme, committing five years of funding support to this transformative social justice initiative. The programme delivers seven annual immersion outings, accompanying students from Marist network schools into remote and often isolated communities across Te Urewera, the East Coast, and Northland, many of which are predominantly Māori.
Through direct engagement with host communities, participants are exposed to the lived realities of systemic poverty, unemployment, and social inequity, explored through the framework of Catholic Social Teaching. These experiences are intentionally challenging, encouraging students to move beyond theory and develop a deeper understanding of structural injustice and their responsibility to act with compassion and integrity.

The programme’s core purpose is to spark a shift in mindset — challenging assumptions, strengthening faith, and nurturing a lifelong commitment to service and justice. Student reflections consistently describe the experience as “life‑changing,” highlighting renewed perspectives on privilege, community, and personal calling.
Importantly, the impact of the Neighbours Programme extends well beyond the participants themselves. Ongoing relationships are built with host communities, enabling reciprocal learning, storytelling, and long‑term connection despite geographical distance. In tangible outcomes, the initiative has also opened educational pathways, with four students from host communities awarded full scholarships to Marist network schools in the previous year.

Through its support of Young Marists, the Hugh Green Foundation is proud to invest in young leaders, community connection, and lasting social impact, helping to cultivate a generation committed to justice, faith, and meaningful service.