Our Story

HELPING kids live their best life

Our history

In 2011, we commenced our community work from Apollo House, in the heart of a social housing estate in East Dubbo, NSW. An estate with intergenerational disadvantage and trauma.

In 2018, we transitioned from sole trader status as Leader In Development to LeaderLife, a not-for-profit organisation with deductible gift recipient (DGR) charitable status.

LeaderLife uses a soft entry, community driven approach to engage some of the hardest to reach people in our community.

Our mission

At LeaderLife our mission is to grow our community: by helping kids doing it tough live their best life.

Our vision

For all to lead a life of purpose, participation and potential, with no child left behind.

Our philosophy

LeaderLife bravely does things a bit differently, knowing that 'all can lead a life of purpose, participation and potential' if the right approach is adopted. We compassionately guide kids to always be learning because “when you know better … you do better”. We commit for the long haul, working holistically with individuals, families and the community. We use the principles of the ‘Circle of Courage Model’, which shows us that to be emotionally healthy, all people need a sense of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity.

Our work

Our programs support children aged between 5 and 12 years old (Skillbuilders), young males aged between 13 and 18 years of age (CATALYST), young males aged between 15 and 25 years of age having a tough time getting a job (Soil2Soul), and adults who drop into Apollo House seeking tailored life navigation support (Resilience).

LeaderLife’s programs work respectfully with the community, providing a platform of empowerment. We deliver effective early intervention and prevention strategies through successful, innovative and evidence based diversionary and therapeutic programs. We gently create opportunities for behaviour change that helps transform lives within Dubbo.

Our programs are 100% voluntary. We never chase; we draw people in, and while we do not run any Indigenous specific programs, over 90% of those accessing our supports are Indigenous.

We know that it takes a really strong community approach to help young people break out of disadvantage, especially Indigenous kids. We work ever so closely with many different levels of government, philanthropists, organisations, Indigenous Elders, community groups and most importantly families; to help kids break out of destructive life patterns like suicide, drugs and crime. We do this ultimately so they have the opportunity to lead a life that is meaningful, positive, happy and thriving.