A ground-breaking initiative is set to provide ongoing guidance and support to young parents in the Latrobe Valley.
Kindred Spirits Enterprises, in collaboration with the Kurnai Young Parents Program (KYPP) at Kurnai College’s Morwell FLO Campus, and Kids First Australia, are developing a new place-based mentoring program thanks to a partnership with the Latrobe Health Assembly.
The 12-month pilot program funded by the Latrobe Health Assembly, is designed to support young parents who are currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from the KYPP. Since 2014, the KYPP has offered a secure and adaptable learning environment for young parents under the age of 21, helping them complete their schooling whilst balancing the responsibilities of parenthood.
However, the need for continued support after graduation became apparent.
“I think KYPP is a fabulous program with great support, but we realised pretty quickly that our students face a great deal of challenges once they leave the safety of our program,” KYPP Leader Ang’ Bolding said.
“That’s why this mentoring program is so important – it helps us keep that sense of community alive and be there for them, even after they’ve moved on.”
Betty, a 17-year-old KYPP student and young mother, understands these challenges.
Betty has found a safe and supportive environment in KYPP which has enabled her to continue to her education.
“I wouldn’t have been able to complete my schooling without KYPP which has given me support for everything I need,” Betty said.
“The KYPP mentoring initiative sounds like a great idea that I hope will give me the support to continue achieving my goals and support me in connecting with community.”
The program will match young parents like Betty and others with experienced mentors to create ongoing community connections and offer personalised guidance. The mentors will help participants navigate the complexities of parenthood, education and career development.
“At KYPP, we believe in creating a nurturing space for our young parents,” Ms Bolding said.
“This new mentoring program is a natural extension of what we do. It adds another layer of support, helping our graduates stay on track and feel like they still have that sense of belonging and stability that was provided in the classroom.”
Kindred Spirits Enterprises (KSE), a leading social impact organisation, will oversee the project.
Shaun Mallia, KSE’s Executive Officer, expressed his gratitude to the Latrobe Health Assembly for its commitment to this cause.
“It’s always a pleasure partnering with an organisation that shares our vision of creating thriving communities with healthy and fulfilled people,” Mr Mallia said.
“The mentoring program has the potential to transform the lives of young parents in the Latrobe Valley and serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions.”
Kids First Australia, known for its innovative programs supporting children and young people across the country, will play a key role in developing and implementing the mentorship program. With their experience in place-based initiatives, they aim to ensure that the pilot delivers positive outcomes for the Latrobe Valley community.
“Parenting at any age is a challenge, especially when you are juggling schooling as well, so being able to offer support and encouragement through it’s mentorship program is such a wonderful opportunity. It will offer benefits to everybody involved, from the young parent to the mentors” said Latrobe Health Assembly Chair, Tanya Rong.
