By embedding its diverse client voices in service scoping, design and delivery, KFA will focus on three areas:
• Education: early childhood and education support;
• Support for children, youth and families: family coaching, mentoring for young people, case management, group work, employment pathways and vocational support; and
• Therapeutic: prevention programs, counselling and recovery.
Chair of Kids First Australia, Sandy Forbes, said the merger brings together two organisations that share a rare alignment of values, purpose and ambition.
“Over the last year, we’ve come to know more about Whitelion’s wonderful Directors, staff, volunteers and their evidence-informed programs, which are highly valued by the communities they serve. It’s also confirmed that by merging, we can become an unparalleled force for profound and positive outcomes for the life opportunities of countless Australian children, young people and families who are at risk. I am very excited about what we can achieve as we integrate our combined knowledge and skills to create a better future for children and young people, and their families nationally.”
CEO of Kids First Australia, Aileen Ashford, says the demand for support and services for at-risk children, families and highly vulnerable young people is increasing with over 9,000 clients provided services in 2022-23 compared to the previous year.
“Our newly combined family and youth expertise enables KFA to provide a whole of family-centred response to enhance the life trajectories of at-risk children and young people. Our goal is for all young people to have every opportunity to be active citizens with equitable access to support they need to reach their potential.
“By integrating our two organisations, we’ll create efficiencies that will allow us to invest even more in innovation, service delivery and our workforce and volunteers, thereby becoming stronger and more sustainable,” Aileen said.