Young people in ITC and Foster Care thrive on snow trip

After a 17-year break, a decision was made to organise another Allambi snow trip.

As predicted, it took a LOT of organising to take over 60 people to the snow. But when it was confirmed that the same accommodation from the 2008 snow trip was available, it felt like it was meant to be. After confirming the accommodation, it was all systems go. There was no turning back from that point, and staff really started to show an interest in being part of this great adventure. It was decided that approximately 15 young people from ITC and 15 children and young people from Foster Care would be invited.  First on the list to invite were those who were likely to gain most from the experience, and also those who have not had the opportunity to experience a trip away like this. Many people, if not most people have enjoyed numerous family holidays and adventures, however this is not always the case for the children and young people supported by Allambi. What a privilege it was to provide such an opportunity to the 30 who were able to come.

Below are some quotes from staff who attended the trip:

“Seeing the personal growth in our Young People over such a short period was inspiring. From their determination to master new skills to the way they encouraged and supported one another, it was a real highlight. The positive social connections they formed, and the bonds I was able to build with some of them, especially not having known them before the trip, were truly special. There was a real sense of shared responsibility, and that collective effort helped make the trip such a success.”

Jye Hancock- House Manager ITC

“The absolute joy that our kids exhibited on this trip is something that I will carry with me forever. Being able to connect with young people I had never heard of and share so many laughs and memories and watch the smiles on their faces is pure magic. Being able to be a part of those smiles, laughs and memories are exactly why I do my job and why I love it with my whole heart.

I wanted to say thank you as an organisation for giving our kids (and us staff) this opportunity. For allowing our young people the chance to make fond memories that they will carry with them for the rest of their life and the same for us staff. Allambi truly does it like no other care company.”

Rhiannon England- House Manager ITC

 “I genuinely loved every moment of the trip, from the planning process through to seeing everyone get home safe and now putting this email together. I just wanted to take the time to say thank you to you all for the care and effort you put in last week at the snow. The looks of wonder and excitement on the kids faces seeing snow for the first time, to see the growth in confidence in the kids not only at the snow but in social circumstances was so profound and this trip, may truly be a once in a lifetime experience for these kids.”

Josh Jennings- Manager ITC

“We were fashionably late to our first (and only) ski lesson, mainly because it took nearly an hour to wrangle 30 kids into ski boots. It was like trying to put their feet into boots 10 sizes to small and made of concrete.”

“On Wednesday it snowed, yep….. snow falling from the sky! There were a few staff with tears falling from their eyes at the same time, unbelievably happy for the kids that experienced this for the first time.” 

“We had snowmen, kangaroo sightings, and a record-breaking number of lost items: helmets, goggles, gloves, balaclavas, skis, poles…… even someone’s soul after a spectacular wipeout – Its ok, Elaine recovered quickly. Tylah told us the snow trip was “crap”, when asked why he said, “because it wasn’t long enough”…fair call!” 

Mel Weir- Program Manager F&P

“Being on the snow trip was like watching the Circle of Courage come to life. The ‘Belonging’ kids, carers and staff felt, the new skills that were learnt on the slopes ‘Mastery’, the ‘Independence’ they were given the opportunity to experience, and the ‘Generosity’ shown from the kids, carers and staff was heart-warming and inspiring.

The children and young people had an amazing adventure that no one can take away from them. They got to feel a sense of accomplishment as they overcame the challenges and learnt how to ski. They got to help each other and also learn that it is ok to accept help from others. For me, one of the most impacting things I witnessed was the children and young people encouraging, supporting and helping one another on the slopes.” 

Tim Reed- Director F&P