KickStart for Kids was founded in 2011 on the belief that every child, regardless of their social or economic background, should have an equal chance to succeed.
Today, with more than 800 volunteers, they facilitate school breakfast and lunch programs, mentoring programs, school holiday program and provide basic clothing and healthcare support in South Australian schools to underprivileged children. Every week, more than 60,000 breakfasts and 10,000 lunches go to 350 schools across the state.
In recent years, KickStart for Kids launched a new program called Future Pathways, which is a youth leadership program for high school students to improve the life and social skills of youth experiencing hardship and reinforce values that can transfer to the classroom and beyond.
KickStart for Kids saw the need to tailor a program for teen students to broaden their relationships and connections within the community. Since its inception, it has seen students increase their confidence, become more engaged with education, and set new future goals with increased belief about their potential as well as learning the vital tools for life.
Currently, the program works with 150 kids from 15 different schools across Adelaide and is continuing to grow. Beginning with children in their last year at primary school, Future Pathways follows these students throughout high school, tertiary education or traineeships and employment.
For more information and to support KickStart for Kids, go to kickstartforkids.com.au