Making a difference in every child’s life can feel impossible. But sometimes, just changing one child’s life, their future, and their trajectory makes all the difference.
Thriive WA’s (formerly Edmund Rice Camp for Kids) Remote Community Program (RCP) provides vulnerable children in remote areas with respite, mentoring, and recreational programs—giving them a safe space to just be kids.
Thriive WA’s remote community program
With the support of Telethon, the program ran 13 regional camps across 2024, reaching 440 children who face significant adversity – from physical neglect and family hardships to the challenges of isolation.
One of those children was James*.
In the beginning, James was incredibly shy and reserved, hesitant to engage with the group. But with time and encouragement from RCP volunteers, he began to open up.
Each day, James grew more comfortable, engaged, and confident. By the end of the program, he was laughing, smiling, and participating in every activity.
For RCP volunteer Marcus, visiting James’ home – a house with no doors and pillows on the floor instead of a bed – was confronting but reinforced why the program exists.
Thriive WA’s remote community program
“When it was time to leave, we gathered every extra resource we had—bags filled with food, supplies, and even spare blow-up mattresses, sheets, pillows, and blankets,” Marcus recalled.
“When we handed them to James, I’ll never forget his reaction. His face lit up with the biggest smile I had ever seen.“
Something so simple – having a few possessions of his own and a proper place to sleep – meant everything to him. That moment still gives me goosebumps,” Marcus said.
That moment was a powerful reminder of RCP’s impact. “It’s not just about activities—it’s about hope, connection, and showing these kids that someone truly cares.”
With Telethon’s ongoing support, Thriive WA continues to make a lasting impact – one child, one community, and one life-changing moment at a time.
*name has been changed to protect privacy