WHAT WE DO
Here's a more in depth look at the programs we provide and how we develop them.
POSITIVE OUTCOMES
Our participants develop the capacity and confidence to connect with others, paired with the discovery of skills and interests, to help them engage and find shared enjoyment.
We assist our participants to confidently engage with the world around them, reducing isolation and disconnection.
our program ethos
the edmund rice camps victoria magic
We empower young people to grow, have enriching relationships and be emotionally healthy people. In turn, break the inter-generational cycle of adversity. We aim to raise emotionally well, empowered, active and capable young people who can connect with others and with the work around them; who look to their future with hope and possibility.
an evidence-based program
We know that experiences of adversity in childhood can impact mental health, well-being and social connectedness in children, adults and families.
This can harm a child's social-emotional development and can create conditions leading to social isolation and disconnection. This in turn, can impact a child's sense of well-being, social skills, relationships and sense of self.
Edmund Rice Camps Victoria aims to mitigate these impacts and promote protective factors to both reduce the likelihood of harm, and build resilience to prevent against further harmful impacts.
PROMOTE RELATIONSHIPs
We use Volunteers in a 1:1 ratio to build relationships with our participants - they provide fun, care and individualised attention. Relationships are built through doing fun activities together. The value of these activities is enhanced through the presence of the volunteer mentor relationship.
BUILD RESILIENCE
Our activities are focused on building resilience in the children, adolescents and families that attend our programs. With our volunteers by their side, our participants are supported to challenge themselves and try new things.
we target:
self
belief
self-esteem
sense of self
achieve
ment
problem solving
social skills
life skills
POSITIVE OUTCOMES
Our participants develop the capacity and confidence to connect with others, paired with the discovery of skills and interests, to help them engage and find shared enjoyment.
We assist our participants to confidently engage with the world around them, reducing isolation and disconnection.
the stories we hear
what our community tells us
Participant
This camp, this place feels like a home and you all have made me feel like a big part of this camp and you have made me feel like a big part of a family. If it wasn't for going on camp, I wouldn't hav the confidence to have made the friends I have today
Parent
I'm not sure how they do it but he has come away again with such a boost to his self-esteem and confidence. He struggles in those areas and it was lovely to see him smiling from ear to ear.
Volunteer
Camps change people. Whether it be the kids or the leaders - there is magic that happens on camps. I love being part of that magic. The impact that camps can have on kids and leaders alike is incredible.
Our success
Here's what we've achieved
what we've achieved
We're proud to share what we've achieved over the years. Our ongoing success is only possible due to the dedication and generosity of our volunteers and supporters.
Please contact our office to discuss how you can ensure our success can continue
2019
10
camp programs
191
Participants placed on programs
297
Volunteer places on programs
23,437
volunteer hours donated
$792,170
value of donated time
2018
11
camp programs
224
Participants placed on programs
327
Volunteer places on programs
25,464
volunteer hours donated
$860,683
value of donated time
2017
12
camp programs
238
Participants placed on programs
311
Volunteer places on programs
24,362
volunteer hours donated
$823,435
value of donated time
our current programs
Our Kids Camps are regular programs that offer a wide range of activities and opportunities for growth and fun! They are typically in the summer and winter school holidays and bring together participants and volunteers for a week of care, acceptance, and fun! They are residential programs and are fully catered. Our volunteer leaders get creative and create a unique camp program each time.These programs typically run for children aged 8-11 years.
Our Teenage Boys and Girls camps are some our most impact full programs. On these programs, participants can enjoy a week of fun, challenge, relationship building and growth. Great friendships will be formed and additional adventure-based activity is experienced that develops confidence and resilience.These programs typically run for teenagers aged 12-15.
Our Family Camps focus on not simply providing an escape from the difficulties of home, but also building a sense of family unity, bonding, resilience and strength. Social isolation is addressed as many families establish relationships with each other and a sense of community. The program invites parents/carers/guardians to bring their children along to enjoy the experience. The program includes activities for guardians separately and alongside their children. These include the typical Edmund Rice Camp activities – games and quizzes, sporting activities as well as opportunities for respite for guardians.
Our family camps are open to participants of all ages!
This program is designed especially for senior secondary students and provides a unique opportunity for students to experience their city from a different perspective.
A perfect program to raise awareness and ignite students' passion and call to action!