IT Takes a Village
It has been said that it takes a village to raise a child. We believe it also takes a village to make sure every young person gets the support they need, when they need it.
The Village Youth Foundation is a community-powered response to the youth mental health crisis in Baw Baw and the Latrobe Valley.
Our Values
BELONGING
YOU BELONG HERE
Every young person deserves to feel seen, valued and connected. Whoever you are, whatever you’re carrying, there is a place for you here.
ACTION
WE SHOW UP
We notice. We listen. We act. Our work is responsive as we walk alongside young people and their families, through difficult times.
COMMUNITY
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
We believe our whole community has a role to play in addressing the youth mental health crisis and changing the trajectory of young lives.
How it started
Too many young people in our community are struggling with their mental health while families hit dead ends, long waitlists or support they simply can’t afford.
The Village Youth Foundation was created to change that.
We provide accessible, affordable mental health support for young people and their families, earlier — before things reach crisis point.
For our Founder, Elizabeth Banks, this mission is deeply personal.
Elizabeth first tried to end her life at just 12 years old and knows what it feels like to be young, overwhelmed and without hope.
Today, she wants every young person to know something she desperately needed to hear then:
You are not alone.
There is a village here for you.
And we’re asking our whole community to be part of it.
Refer a young person. Support our work. Be part of their village.