Programs
INDIGENOUS PROGRAMS: Supporting Literacy & Health Education
Supporting Literacy & Health Education – A Partnership between Aboriginal Australians and Ian Thorpe’s fountain for youth
All Australian children have the right to good health and a first rate education. We are committed to achieving this equality.
In 2003 Fountain for youth began funding maternal and child health education carried out by the award winning Sunrise Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, in the remote communities east of Katherine, NT.
Our research confirmed that the essential foundation for improved health and life expectancy was rapid progress in life empowering education.
The Literacy Empowerment Project combines support for parents and infants, preschool education, development of literacy, cultural enrichment and building stepping stones towards employment and family wellbeing.
Public & corporate support is essential but Fountain for youth has also shown that Territory, State and Federal Governments can work cooperatively to support community initiative.
In September 2005 the Federal Education Minister, Dr Brendan Nelson (Liberal) announced a grant of one million dollars (2005-2007) to support Fountain for youth’s Literacy Empowerment Project.
In August 2008 the Federal Minister for Education, Ms Julia Gillard (ALP) approved a new grant of one million dollars (2008 – 2010), allowing Fountain for youth to continue working with our partners in carrying on and expanding this important project.
Principals, teachers, students and their families contribute to the success and growth of the Literacy Empowerment Project.
The Literacy Empowerment Project
- Literacy Backpacks
- Early Learning
- Walking with Spirits Festival
- Community Storytelling
- Ghunmarn Cultural Centre Wugularr
Project Progress Report
Community Education & Health Projects
- AIME – Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience
- From Little Things Big Things Grow – Book Project
- Yarrabah ‘Books for Babies’ Project
Community Youth Projects
