Students and mentors abseiling on campHealth, education and self esteem are the building blocks of strong communities.

Since 2006 Rio Tinto has partnered with the David Wirrpanda Foundation (DWF) creating opportunities for at risk young people by promoting healthy lifestyles and building confidence.

DWF delivers a number of unique programmes, offering high profile mentors to students that encourage them to strive toward their dreams.

In 2008 Troy Cook's Health and Fitness Programme was launched in Karratha. The ten week programme gives participants a snap shot into the life of an elite athlete. Facilitated by Troy Cook (former Fremantle Docker player) and Bianca Franklin (West Coast Fever netballer), on completion of the programme, students have an insight into the importance of food, water and exercise whilst looking at drugs, alcohol and smoking. In 2009 the program will be launched in secondary schools across the West Pilbara.

Top model Shannon McGuire is another mentor that works for the Foundation. She delivers the "Dare to Dream" programme dealing with issues specific to girls entering their early teenage years.

"I aim to connect with girls as a friend, confidante and role model," says Shannon.

"But mostly, we want to have fun by taking care of ourselves."

Another programme is On My Way Youth Leadership, which is an incentive programme for students who meet attendance and behavioural goals. Students who succeed participate in a camp, developing leadership and team work skills.

Those students unable to attend the camp spend the week working with Jacqui Neil, DWF's Pilbara officer.

"Although some students didn't qualify due to behavioural incidents, it enabled Jacqui to work closely with these students during the time the other children were away at camp," Marion Hearne, Manager Tom Price Youth Centre said.

DWF has offices in Perth and Wickham in the Pilbara, equipped with the latest technology that provide a safe environment for youth to develop life skills, complete homework or just meet with other young people.