Taldumande Youth Services (TYS) is a not-for-profit organisation that supports vulnerable and homeless children, young people and their families through crisis response, residential care, and specialised family support services. In operation for over 40 years, TYS works with over 800 young people and families each year. Their services are not just about offering shelter, they offer a full wrap around service that moves almost all the young people in their care from a position of homelessness to thriving, independent contributors to the community.

The young people (YP) in their care primarily come to Taldumande due to family breakdown, mental health and/or drug and alcohol abuse or escaping family violence. TYS are based in Northern Sydney & the Northern Beaches, housing up to 65 children and young people on any given night.

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The Taldumande Recreation Program offers opportunities to accelerate and track the wellbeing, life skills, and general engagement of their young people. By enabling the most underprivileged access to recreational activities they can witness enhanced personal development and confidence in their YP. Offering opportunities for their YP to attend positive risk programs such as ski trips and surf camps encourages confidence and resilience that can be carried back into their everyday life.

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Activities are tailored to suit the expressed needs and abilities of the young people and the recreation programs are usually run during school holidays. Those participating have found it a good escape as well as being great fun.

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Waratah Education Foundation supported the Recreation Program.