Chain Reaction Foundation

18/01/2026

09/12/2025

Some stories stay with you, even after a young person has finished their time with us. Isla’s is one of them.

She first came to Mt Druitt Learning Ground in primary school. It was one of the only places where she felt calm and truly listened to. When she moved into high school, she could not return. It was out of her hands, and she carried that loss quietly. She asked to come back many times. She missed this place more than anyone knew.

When she finally returned in Year 9, she walked in, saw the room she remembered, and cried.

Not because she was sad, but because she felt safe again. Because she remembered who she was when she first came here. Because coming back felt like getting a piece of herself back.

Isla has now finished her time at Mt Druitt Learning Ground. She wrote a letter for other young people who might be here now, or thinking about coming, or hoping to return one day. It is honest, brave and deeply moving.

👉 Read Isla’s letter: chainreaction.org.au/files/Newsletter_Summer__2025.pdf

*Some details, including images, have been changed to protect the participant’s privacy.

17/11/2025

Anxiety can be tough on young people, and it can be just as tough on the adults who care for them. Many parents and carers want to help but are not always sure what to say or do when their child is overwhelmed or anxious.

This free session is a calm and supportive space to learn what anxiety looks like in kids and teens, why it happens, and how we can guide them through it in a safe and steady way. We will talk about early signs, simple strategies that make a real difference, and how adults can look after their own wellbeing at the same time.

If you want to understand anxiety better and feel more confident supporting the young people in your life, this workshop is a great place to start.

RSVP is essential. We would love to have you join us.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1BjIrIApTa-uCn1-ymJSUA #/registration

12/11/2025

At Chain Reaction Foundation, kindness is at the heart of everything we do, especially when it comes to children.

World Kindness Day is a reminder that small acts of compassion can ripple out to big change. When kids feel understood, supported and valued, it boosts their self esteem, empathy and overall wellbeing. That’s exactly what we strive for through Mt Druitt Learning Ground, Learning Ground in School, and Family Skills programs - safe, judgement free spaces where children and families can belong and thrive.

Kindness doesn’t need to be big or costly.
• A genuine “How are you?” to a young person who might be going through a rough time
• Helping a peer in class who’s on the sidelines
• Adults offering encouragement and belief in a young person’s potential
• Families choosing moments of connection instead of screens

We’d love to know, what’s one thing you can do this week or this month to show kindness to a young person in your life or your community?

Let’s build a culture where children know they matter, are supported, and are surrounded by kindness. Because when they do, we all win.

31/10/2025

Hats off to Teachers! 🎩

Today we’re celebrating the teachers who show up every day with compassion, curiosity and care.

To those who listen, guide and create spaces where young people feel seen and supported — thank you. You make a difference that goes well beyond the classroom.

We’re also grateful to the teachers and school staff who partner with Chain Reaction Foundation. Your support helps young people and families feel connected, respected and empowered.

From all of us at Chain Reaction Foundation, hats off to you.

23/10/2025

27/09/2025

We are so proud to share that Chain Reaction Foundation has won the Mental Health Matters Award for Community Initiative for our leading program Mt Druitt Learning Ground 💜.

This award recognises more than 20 years of grassroots work supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people and families in Western Sydney. Learning Ground was built by our community, for our community – a safe space where young people are respected, supported, and truly seen.

The award was presented today at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth by The Hon. Rose Jackson, Minister for Mental Health, Housing, Homelessness, Water & Youth.

Accepting the award on behalf of Chain Reaction Foundation were:
💜 Stephen - Learning Ground Coordinator
💜 Charmaine - Manager, School & Family Liaison
💜 Bec - Fundraising & Marketing Manager
💜 Jemima - Funding & Wellbeing Officer

Most importantly, this award belongs to the young people and families who continue to inspire us with their courage and resilience.

Thank you Wayahead - Mental Health Association NSW for this honour, and to our incredible board members, staff, volunteers, partners, Elders, community leaders and schools who walk beside us each day.

25/09/2025

Last Thursday, we proudly celebrated Melissa Hood, who was nominated for Volunteer of the Year at the Third Sector Awards.

For 15 years, Melissa has given her time, energy, and heart to Chain Reaction Foundation. From creating and leading the Family Skills Program, to facilitating our Young Peoples's Program, and lending a hand at community events, she has been a constant source of encouragement and care. Melissa’s dedication has touched countless lives and reflects the very best of what volunteering means.

Although the award went to another deserving volunteer, this nomination shines a light on Melissa’s extraordinary contribution. Her passion, consistency, and kindness continue to inspire all of us at Chain Reaction Foundation.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa on this well-deserved recognition, and in celebrating the difference she continues to make every single day.

12/08/2025

Our numbers may have been lower in LGiS this morning due to our campers being offsite, however our enthusiasm ad creativity were on point. We learned about safety, respect and responsibility and continued to understand the needs of our whole selves. We can't wait to share our finished artworks, but here is a sneak peak.