our story
the History of
Change for Youth Foundation
Founded in 2016 by Lisa Honeychurch, Change for Youth Foundation was established from a deep commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people living in out-of-home care.
The Foundation’s origins can be traced to a significant pro bono legal matter undertaken by Lisa during her career as an employment lawyer. Lisa successfully represented a young boy and his foster parents, challenging a reunification decision which had resulted in the child being placed at ‘high risk of harm’, seek parenting orders through the Family Court. Through this precedent case, she gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by many children involved in the child protection system. The experience highlighted the instability many children encounter, the pressures placed on carers, and the profound importance of consistent, trusted adult relationships in helping young people thrive.
Determined to make a practical difference and having been a volunteer at camp quality, Lisa established what was then known as the Keema Children’s Foundation alongside the Little Stars Kids Camps Program. The vision was simple but powerful: to create safe, positive experiences where children and young people could build confidence, connection, belonging and trust through relationships with caring adult mentors.
Over the following years, the Foundation grew steadily and developed a strong volunteer and community network. Prior to COVID-19, more than 100 children and young people participated in camps and mentoring experiences each year supported by over 130 volunteer mentors. The programs provided opportunities many young people may not otherwise have experienced, including recreation, community participation, positive role modelling and the development of trusted relationships.
The camps became known for their trauma-informed approach and focus on emotional safety, inclusion and connection. Most importantly, they gave children and young people the opportunity to experience something every child deserves – joy, fun and a genuine sense of belonging.
Through this work, however, the Foundation also observed a recurring challenge. While positive experiences and trusted relationships were critical, many young people in care continued to face significant barriers to educational engagement and achievement. It became increasingly clear that education was one of the most powerful pathways to long-term stability, opportunity and improved life outcomes.
This insight led to an evolution in the Foundation’s work. Building on the relationships and lessons developed through the camps program, Change for Youth Foundation shifted its primary focus to supporting educational engagement and achievement for children and young people in out-of-home care.
Today, education sits at the heart of our mission. Through our Empower Youth Program, we work alongside young people, carers and schools to support learning, build confidence and create pathways for future success. At the same time, we remain committed to providing positive community experiences that broaden horizons and foster connection. Whether attending the theatre, sporting events, cultural activities or other community outings, young people continue to have opportunities to experience the wider world, develop social connections and build a sense of belonging.
While our programs have evolved, our purpose remains unchanged: to create opportunities, strengthen relationships and help children and young people in care build brighter futures.
