KidsXpress

Huge shoutout to the incredible Jacqui Vanzella, one of KidsXpress’s longest-standing board members and a true champion for our cause! Jacqui’s passion and dedication have always inspired us, but this year she truly went above and beyond. For her STRYDE4 21km walk, Jacqui raised a staggering $17,342 in sponsorships, putting her at the very top of our leaderboard. And, in a truly generous and moving act of support the Foundation arm of Macquarie Group - where Jacqui works - offered to match every dollar she raised, bringing her total impact from this event to an extraordinary $34,684! But the generosity didn’t stop there. With the additional $25,600 raised by others who took on the walk for Team KidsXpress and rallied support from family, friends, and colleagues, we surpassed $60,000 in donations! This means we’ll be able to offer over 240 hours of life-changing therapy to children on our waiting list in the new year, a milestone that has moved us all deeply. Jacqui, your commitment to KidsXpress and the generosity of Macquarie Group Foundation have made a world of difference for us - and for every child we’ll be able to support. Thank you for your unwavering belief in our work! 💜🙏🏽

Today, we were thrilled to see our Sydney Programs Manager, Rita Dahr, present alongside Kirsty Rowlinson, Research Assistant and PhD Candidate from the The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use. Together, they shared insights into the evaluation review the Matilda Centre is conducting on our School Partnership Program. This review aims to gather concrete data to confirm what we already observe: the significant, positive impact of our mental health support programs in schools. There truly couldn’t be a better team than the Matilda Centre to help capture these outcomes. The Society for Mental Health Research Conference, held from November 6-8, 2024, has brought together leading minds in mental health research under the theme “Innovation and Inclusivity". Massive thanks to the SMHR organisers for creating such a valuable opportunity to connect and collaborate on advancing mental health research. It’s inspiring to see so many in the field coming together with a shared commitment to making an impact.

🎃 Halloween may not be everyone’s cup of tea here in Australia but costume play is more than just fun - it’s a useful tool for building language, emotional, and social skills that benefit young minds. When children step into the shoes of their favourite characters, they learn new words, explore emotions, and understand social cues. Whether they’re a hero, animal, or even a "villain," they’re engaging in language-rich play that strengthens vocabulary and literacy by acting out stories and scenarios. This type of play also builds their confidence as they try out new roles and make sense of the world around them. Trick-or-treating, too, provides valuable learning. It gives children a safe space to explore social interactions, make decisions, and navigate the thrill of being part of a group. From approaching houses to navigating little social exchanges, they’re practicing decision-making and communication skills - and these small moments boost self-esteem and resilience. And there’s the problem-solving factor! Children develop critical thinking skills as they strategise, plan routes, and figure out which houses or streets offer the best treats. It’s not just about grabbing lollies and running (which naturally some kids do) but many kids voluntarily share their loot with younger siblings or friends who didn’t have as much luck, and some even engage in little “transactions,” swapping their favourite treats with each other. All of these moments build empathy, cooperation, and creativity, making them innovative thinkers. So whether or not you celebrate Halloween, there’s real value in letting kids enjoy a bit of dress-up and pretend play - skills for life wrapped in costumes and a sprinkle of imagination! #ChildDevelopment #HalloweenOrNot #CostumePlay #AussieKids #FancyDress #RolePlay

Starting kindergarten is a HUGE milestone for your little one, but a rocky start can lead to ongoing challenges in both learning and social skills. Our upcoming webinar, Kindy Kick-Off, is here to ensure your child’s transition is as smooth and supported as possible. For just $29 (less than the cost of a haircut!), you’ll get: * Practical tips on everything from managing separation anxiety to making and retaining new friends. * One hour of expert insights, plus an extra 30 mins to ask YOUR questions about YOUR child’s unique needs. * Strategies from a senior clinical psychologist that you’ll carry through the primary years - her insights will stick with you long after the session ends! The expectations on kindy kids today aren’t what they were when we were their age. Academic demands have risen, but so have mental health challenges and teacher burnout. Preparing ourselves to support our children in this tougher environment is essential; the more we know, the better we can help them thrive. Importantly, studies show that children who struggle with the transition to kindergarten may face lower academic achievements, behavioural issues, and even mental health challenges down the line. This is your chance to set them up for success from Day 1. Don’t miss out! Give your child the best possible start to kindy - and a brighter future. After all, what’s $29 for our kids? All proceeds go towards supporting more vulnerable children through our therapy programs. Sign up now before spots fill up! https://lnkd.in/gyqgaY-F

She did it! 🎉 After three months of intense training, Margo Ward, our incredible CEO and Founder, completed the STRYDE4 Day challenge last Thursday - a formidable 21km walk from Bondi to La Perouse. In this heartfelt video, Margo shares her journey, her doubts, and the determination that kept her moving forward. Many of you may have followed her training video updates, where she opened up about the challenges she faced, especially after an illness earlier this year left her temporarily unable to walk. Despite the physical and mental hurdles, Margo was determined to finish every kilometre…and then some! (She and a few fellow walkers even took a "scenic detour", adding a couple of extra kilometres to the journey.) The strength and resilience Margo showed mirrors what we see every day at KidsXpress - a commitment to facing adversity, inspired by the children and families we support. Margo leaned on her own “corner crew”, Natalie and Rana, along with a wide network of KidsXpress supporters, friends, and sponsors who cheered her on every step of the way. This wasn’t just a walk; it was a testament to the KidsXpress mission. If the young people we work with can endure challenges that would bring most adults to their knees, then Margo was determined to push through her own. Thanks to this event and your support, WE RAISED OVER $37,000, enabling us to provide approximately 150 hours of therapy for vulnerable children!! For Margo, the tears, sore feet, and aching muscles were a small price to pay to make a difference. Our most profound gratitude you to everyone who supported Stryde4 and helped us bring hope to those who need it most. 💙 #Stryde4 #KidsXpress #MentalHealth #Resilience #ChallengeEvents

Thank you to everyone who registered, walked, raised funds or donated for KidsXpress at today’s STRYDE4 Day! Thanks to your collective efforts, we raised more than $32,000 and secured 2nd place overall out of 26 participating charities – beating some very big names! A special thanks to Jacqui Vanzella, KidsXpress board member, who topped our fundraising leaderboard with an incredible $16,800. 🎉 All contributions will help fund our Colour Their World project, providing over 120 hours of expressive therapy to children impacted by trauma. It’s not too late to donate if you haven’t had a chance yet – every bit helps us continue our mission. https://lnkd.in/duRSmprj Huge thanks also to Geoff Coombes OAM and STRYDE4 for embracing us as one of their partner charities. Congratulations also to Margo Ward for exceeding her expectations and completing the full 21km course! And hat’s off to Team KX first place winners Patrick Darcy and young Michaela Loukas who completed the course in just over 3 hours. Special mention to Hila and her husband Bradley who helped with the 5am bump in! What a day! 👏

In this video, our CEO & Founder Margo Ward shares her excitement as she approaches the final stretch - just 3 more sleeps until the big STRYDE4 event! Those who have followed her from the start of her training will know how remarkable this achievement is. Earlier this year, an illness left Margo unable to walk, and now she’s taking on 21km, including the dreaded stairs on the Bondi to La Perouse track! This is Margo’s last training session before she and the team of brave KidsXpress staff and friends walk for child mental health. Every step they take is a step towards supporting young minds through KidsXpress programs. With just days to go, there’s still time to donate and help Margo or one of the other #TeamKidsXpress members cross the finish line. Your support can make all the difference. Watch the video and donate today: https://lnkd.in/g3FMB_6f #STRYDE4 #ProjectColourTheirWorld #childmentalhealth

We are truly honoured and deeply grateful to be one of the recipients of the 2024 St.George Foundation Inspire Grant, which will provide vital support to one of our partner schools over the next three years. Recently, we had the privilege of joining other incredible organisations at the St. George Foundation charity partner event. What stood out to us most was that St. George Foundation doesn’t just fund projects – they genuinely seek to understand the charity sector and build meaningful relationships with their partners. They show an incredible trust in their partners' expertise and are eager to help in ways that are supportive and impactful. We are truly inspired by their commitment to uplifting the education outcomes of children and young people who face the greatest barriers to reaching their potential. In this video, our CEO, Margo Ward, shares heartfelt thanks to St. George Foundation for believing in our work and empowering us to inspire more children, more communities, and each other. Thank you, St. George Foundation, for standing beside us and for your ongoing dedication to making a lasting difference. Together, we are creating a future every child deserves. 🙏🏽 #StGeorgeFoundation Westpac Group

As we step into Anti-Poverty Week from October 13-19, coinciding with the UN Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it's crucial to highlight the deep-seated issue of child poverty in Australia. Research consistently shows that children raised in poverty aren't just facing immediate financial struggles; they're at a significantly higher risk of experiencing mental health issues throughout their lives as they're more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and lower self-esteem, which can impair their educational and social development. Crucially, the effects of poverty are profound and long-lasting. A child living in poverty is 3.3 times more likely to remain in poverty as an adult, perpetuating a cycle of hardship that can span generations. Unlike comparable countries such as New Zealand, Canada, and the USA, which have successfully implemented policies to reduce child poverty and enhance well-being, Australia lacks a unified national approach to address this critical issue. . With rising rents and the escalating cost of living, the situation is only worsening, pushing more children into precarious living conditions each day. This week, our team at KidsXpress, along with our CEO, has signed a petition urging our Federal Government to take decisive action: - To legislate an end to child poverty. - To ensure children are prioritized in our 'Measuring What Matters' national wellbeing framework. Your voice can drive change. Join us by signing the petition, and help us advocate for policies that will not only alleviate poverty but significantly improve the mental health and future potential of our children. 🖊️ Sign Here: https://buff.ly/4dNVyNR Let's commit to a future where every child in Australia grows up with the opportunity to thrive, free from the burdens of poverty. #NationalChildPovertyWeek #EndChildPoverty #KidsXpress #AntiPovertyWeek2024 #UNDayForEradicationOfPoverty #centrecare

🚨 Less than 3 WEEKS TO GO! Don’t Miss Your opportunity to be part of Stryde4Day! 🌟🚶♀️🚶♂️ The countdown is ON, and the excitement is building! With just over two weeks to go, now is the perfect time for you to join Team KidsXpress and make a lasting impact! On Thursday, 24th October, join hundreds of Stryders as we: Walk 10km or 21km from beautiful Bondi Beach to Maroubra/La Perouse or paddle 14km from Clovelly to La Perouse. Together, we’re raising vital funds for Project Colour Their World, supporting children’s mental health through free expressive therapy sessions. Every dollar raised will help KidsXpress provide these crucial services to vulnerable children at our Sydney centre. Don’t wait until it’s too late! ⏰ Registration closes Monday 14th October, so secure your spot now, don’t miss this opportunity to be part of this exciting event whilst enjoying breathtaking sights along one of the world’s best coastlines and participating in the exciting activations, including scavenger hunts, an ice bath immersion and team challenges along the way. Special offer: Use code KIDSXPRESSCOMMUNITY for a discount when you register! Let’s make every step count and take Big Strides for Little Minds! Register here! https://buff.ly/4em41ZK