A Dubbo program that’s helping local children to break out of disadvantage will help shape new like-minded initiatives across NSW.

President of the Law Society of NSW Cassandra Banks says Dubbo’s LeaderLife program is providing a magnificent example to people and organisations who are committed to supporting children who are doing it tough.

“As a longstanding legal practitioner in the Children and Young Persons Care and Protection jurisdiction, I’m impressed with LeaderLife’s program at Dubbo’s Apollo House which is steering the community’s vulnerable children towards ‘a life of purpose, participation and potential’,” Ms Banks said.

LeaderLife is one of eight like-minded organisations in the Tracker Network, each helping young people who are having a rough time. The network was founded by Bernie Shakeshaft, who in 2006 established the BackTrack program in Armidale.

“I have nominated the Tracker Network as the Law Society’s President’s Charity for 2023. Bernie and his team provide coaching and mentorship to help other communities apply BackTrack’s principles and methods to their own circumstances,” Ms Banks said.

“I am thrilled to be supporting the Tracker Network’s inspiring mission to expand its practical, constructive and compassionate work to as many communities in NSW as possible. If more programs like Dubbo’s LeaderLife can take root wherever children suffer disadvantage, these young people can take their first steps to a brighter future.”

Ms Banks has led a senior delegation from the Law Society to see firsthand LeaderLife’s work with children and young people from five to 25 to help transform young lives.

LeaderLife’s founder Joh Leader has been involved in helping disengaged children and young people at Apollo House since 2011, joining the Tracker Network in 2017.

“I’ve been privileged to be part of a collaboration with the Tracker Network that’s now growing and evolving across many communities to help kids doing it tough live their best life,” Ms Leader said.

“LeaderLife is very grateful to be working with the Law Society to help share the story of the Tracker Network. Its support will help increase the impact of community solutions which help young people face their challenges, learn some skills and steer clear of trouble.”

Ms Banks is in Dubbo with members of the Council of the Law Society of NSW and Presidents of NSW’s 29 Regional Law Societies. You can make a one off donation or set up a regular contribution to the Tracker Network here.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Damien Smith | Director, Media and Public Relations
The Law Society of New South Wales
M: +61 417 788 947 | E: Damien.Smith@lawsociety.com.au