While I love all of the programs at Power To Be, one program holds a very special place in my heart: The Family Roots program. 2021 marks the thirteenth year that we will hold space, alongside our partners at Human Nature Counselling Society, for families to come together in nature to nurture family bonds and build community.
In addition to participating in a range of nature-based activities and environmental stewardship initiatives, families expand their support networks, enhance self-esteem and social skills while improving self-awareness and self-regulation skills. Outdoor activity days/weekends for participants are supported by a clinical counsellor from Human Nature Counselling Society and Power To Be staff and volunteers.
I recently spoke to one of our alumni families Cat and Daphne about their experience in the program. Cat and Daphne joined our program two years ago and joined us again last year as a mentor family! They told me that they were first attracted to the program because of the potential to get outside in nature and build connections. Cat relayed that at the time they started the program, the care and nurturing provided in the program was “exactly what they needed”. Throughout the program they enjoyed trying new activities, learned new skills and got outside! These days you can find Cat and Daphne exploring nature by heading out on long walks where they connect to different beaches and local nature spots in Victoria!
The strength of this program lies in connections with community partners and supporters. This year we have added TD to our Family Roots community. TD has come on board as a key supporter for Family Roots and we are thrilled to thank them for their ongoing support of families and environmental stewardship! We look forward to welcoming our new families to the program later this month and are excited about the experiences and connections that they will gain through this wonderful program.
