10 Years of Change for Youth Foundation: 2016–2026

Since the Foundation was established, every board member, staff member, volunteer, supporter and community partner has contributed to changing the lives of children and young people who have experienced abuse, neglect and trauma.

Before sharing what we achieved together, we would like to reflect on where our journey began.

Change for Youth Foundation was founded in 2016 by Lisa Honeychurch, a lawyer and advocate who had seen firsthand what happens when vulnerable children fall through the cracks.

It began with a pro bono Family Court case. Through representing a young boy in foster care, Lisa saw the instability experienced by children in care, the emotional toll on carers and the profound absence of consistent, relationship-based support for children navigating trauma. She couldn’t walk away from that.

Lisa went on to establish what was originally known as Keema Children’s Foundation, providing camps and mentoring experiences for children in care. Before COVID-19, the Foundation had supported more than 100 young people, assisted by over 130 volunteer mentors. These experiences gave children opportunities to feel joy, belonging and trust.

When the pandemic made camps impossible, the Foundation identified another critical need: children in care were falling significantly behind at school and becoming disengaged from education. What they needed was more than traditional tutoring. They needed a trusted adult who understood trauma and could build safety, connection and confidence alongside learning.

This led to the development of specialised training for Learning Support Mentors and the creation of the Empower Youth Program.

In 2025, the organisation became Change for Youth Foundation, reflecting the broader range of young people now supported and the Foundation’s growing advocacy work.

What began with one child has grown into years of support, connection and advocacy for children and young people in out-of-home care. The following achievements reflect the many people who have contributed their time, expertise, generosity and belief in our work.

The numbers tell an important part of our story, but our impact extends far beyond what can be measured.

None of these achievements would have been possible without the generosity, commitment and belief of our supporters.

Whether you donated, volunteered, attended an event, partnered with us, served on our Board, worked within our team or championed our cause, you have helped provide children and young people with greater stability, connection and hope for their future.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to ensuring children and young people receive the consistent relationships and personalised support they need to heal, learn and thrive.

Thank you for standing alongside us and the children and young people we support.

With gratitude,

Change for Youth Foundation Staff and Board