ATSI House of Healing
Our Vision
To create a nurturing environment that empowers Indigenous children to reconnect with their culture, heal from trauma, and thrive in their communities.
Programs We're Proud Of
Detention Programs
We partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in detention centres to build trust, strengthen cultural identity, and break cycles of trauma and crime. Through Indigenous-led programs, in collaboration with Aboriginal Community, we provide holistic support focusing on wellbeing, family reconnection, education, and employment. Drawing on evidence-based models like Ngudjoong Billa (WA) and Djamu Youth Justice (NSW), our cultural workshops, sports, and restorative justice circles aim to reduce reoffending by up to 30% (AIHW, 2024). By fostering cultural pride and resilience, we empower First Nations youth to thrive, supporting safer communities and *Closing the Gap Target 11* for a 30% reduction in youth detention by 2031.
Post Care Support
Our Post Care Programs are dedicated to maintaining a continuous connection with children after they leave residential care, ensuring they have the support they need during their transition to independence. We facilitate links to community leaders and our support networks, empowering youth to engage with their communities and access valuable resources.
A key focus of this programs is the importance of keeping siblings together, honouring Indigenous customs and fostering family bonds. We understand that these connections are vital for emotional well-being and stability as children navigate their new journeys.
By prioritising these connections and cultural ties, our Post Care Programs help Indigenous youth build a strong foundation for their future, ensuring they feel supported and valued as they step into the next chapter of their lives.
Cultural Development
Our Cultural Development initiatives focus on fostering a deep connection to land and nature, allowing Indigenous children to engage in traditional practices that strengthen their sense of identity and belonging. We facilitate activities such as bushwalking, which not only promote mental well-being but also encourage a profound appreciation for the natural world and its significance in Indigenous cultures.
Through these experiences, children learn about their ancestral lands, traditional ecological knowledge, and the importance of stewardship of the environment. Engaging with nature in this way helps to build confidence, resilience, and a strong cultural identity, reinforcing their connection to their heritage.
By prioritising cultural development, we nurture the holistic growth of Indigenous youth, empowering them to embrace their roots and thrive within their communities.
Spiritual Rituals
Our programs incorporate spiritual rituals that play a vital role in connecting Indigenous children with their cultural heritage and ancestors. By participating in these meaningful practices, children are guided on a journey of self-discovery and connection to their roots.
These rituals promote a profound sense of purpose and belonging, allowing children to honour their traditions and the wisdom of their ancestors. Through ceremonies, storytelling, and other spiritual practices, we create a sacred space where children can explore their identity and foster a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.
By integrating spiritual rituals into our programs, we help Indigenous youth cultivate resilience, confidence, and a strong connection to their community, empowering them to carry forward their cultural legacy with pride. Breaking the cycle of trans generational trauma is a priority for us to help these young men and women thrive.
Traditional Healing
Our commitment to holistic care includes collaboration with Indigenous healers, ensuring that traditional methods are respected and integrated into our programs. We recognise the profound wisdom of Indigenous healing practices and strive to incorporate these approaches into our mental health initiatives.
Through the use of bush medicines and spiritual healing techniques, we provide a complementary pathway to wellness for Indigenous children in residential care. These traditional healing practices not only honour the cultural heritage of the communities we serve but also enhance the overall effectiveness of our mental health programs.
By blending contemporary therapeutic approaches with time-honoured traditions, we create a supportive environment that fosters healing and resilience, empowering children to embrace their identities and thrive.
Staff Education
Our comprehensive staff education program focuses on deepening the understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories, equipping our team with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support to Indigenous children in residential care.
Through specialised training sessions, staff members explore the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures, enhancing their appreciation for the traditions and values that shape the lives of the children they serve. Workshops on resilience strategies are also a key component, providing practical tools to help staff support Indigenous youth in overcoming challenges.
Additionally, our program addresses the mental health issues faced by Indigenous communities, fostering awareness and sensitivity towards the unique experiences of these children. By investing in staff education, we ensure that our team is not only informed but also empowered to create a nurturing and culturally responsive environment for Indigenous youth.
Cultural Healing Camps
Our Cultural Healing Camps are designed to provide a nurturing environment for Indigenous children in residential care, promoting their emotional and cultural well-being. Through a variety of enriching activities, we focus on holistic healing and support their journey towards reintegration into society.
Participants engage in cultural therapy, where they connect with their heritage and traditions, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. Music therapy offers a creative outlet for expression and healing, while arts therapy encourages self-discovery and personal growth through creative exploration. Additionally, sports therapy promotes teamwork, physical health, and resilience.
These comprehensive activities not only support the children's individual healing journeys but also prepare them for a successful reintegration into their communities, empowering them to embrace their cultural roots and thrive in society.