2021 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Act for Kids story, one which will enable our team to continue its legacy as leaders in protecting Australian children and young people.
Act for Kids has experienced significant growth over the past decade which lead to a review of its purpose.
We’re thrilled to share the news that we have redefined our purpose following an extensive 12 month process where clients, partners, external stakeholders and team members had their voices heard through a range of different avenues. It was an opportunity for feedback, growth and a chance to create a new aspiration.
Act for Kids Chief Executive Officer Doctor Katrina Lines said it was time for positive change.
“Act for Kids has grown beyond its initial purpose which was to treat and prevent child abuse and neglect. Whilst we still do that, we now actually act on behalf of children and young people,” Dr Lines explained.
The new purpose “keep kids safe, heal from trauma and lead happy lives” derives from a combination of words expressed through a range of communications to our community.
“It was important for our team to capture the voices of our clients, particularly children and young people in our redefined purpose,” Dr Lines said.
A drawing competition meant the team received direct feedback from some of its clients, with many saying Act for Kids made them feel happy.
“Of course, this meant we had to include the word happy in the new purpose,” Dr Lines said.
The Act for Kids journey began in 1988 when a treatment centre for abused and neglected children opened in Wooloowin, Brisbane. In 2008, the Abused Child Trust became Act for Kids as the organisation grew its ability to advocate on behalf of children and young people.
The new purpose recognises the organisation’s grassroots of preventing and treating child abuse and neglect, but it also acknowledges the continued efforts made to keep kids safe.
Unfortunately the demand for Act for Kids services continues to grow across Australia, however the new purpose will ensure every decision that is made will help keep kids safe, heal from trauma and ensure children lead happy lives.
We thank everyone for their support as we begin our new purpose.