15 Years – 15 Stories of Belonging – Celebrating the Legacy of Young Parents Group

From 2014 to 2022 Young Parents Group (YPG) at The Place was far more than a weekly program — it provided a vital lifeline of support, connection and empowerment for young families. 

What began through funding from the Youth Opportunities Fund soon grew into a deeply valued initiative, later supported by the nib Foundation and strengthened through ongoing collaboration with local service providers who shared a commitment to helping families thrive.

At its heart, YPG created a safe and welcoming space where young parents could connect with others facing similar experiences. For many, it was the first place they felt truly understood — a place where friendships formed, confidence grew and isolation faded.

Each week, parents gathered not only to learn practical parenting skills, but also to have fun, build resilience, celebrate milestones and support one another through life’s ups and downs. The program focused on empowering families through education, social connection and encouragement, helping parents develop the confidence to care for their children and themselves.

The impact of the group became even more significant during the COVID-19 pandemic. As lockdowns and uncertainty disrupted daily life, the program adapted quickly to ensure families remained connected and supported. Whether through alternative ways of engaging, wellbeing check-ins or maintaining vital social contact during periods of isolation, YPG continued to provide stability and care when it was needed most.

Behind the success of the program was a strong network of community partnerships. Local organisations and service providers that worked together to ensure families could access holistic support, demonstrating the power of collaboration in creating positive outcomes for children and parents alike.

By 2022, the program had touched the lives of countless young families. Although YPG transitioned into locally funded TEI services, its legacy continues through the relationships built, valuable knowledge and parenting skills shared, confidence nurtured, and the lasting sense of belonging it created within the community.

The story of the Young Parents Group is a reminder that when communities invest in young families with compassion and consistency, the impact can last for generations.

Thank you to every parent, child, staff member, volunteer and partner organisation who made this journey so meaningful.