Edmund Rice Camps for Kids WA Inc (ERCKWA) is a non-profit community based organisation that serves the needs of WA 'at risk' and vulnerable children aged 7–16 and their families (families who would not otherwise have such opportunities). We achieve this via a variety of developmentally-focused respite programs, including camps. ERCKWA strives to create safe spaces where ‘at risk’ and vulnerable children can thrive and belong, equipping them with strength to overcome adversity and trauma. All ERCKWA programs consist of recreational and educational activities such as team building games, sports, arts and crafts, messy activities and much more! Unique to our programs ERCKWA offer a 1:1 child and young adult Leader ratio, these volunteer Leaders act as friends and mentors to the children in our care. The ERCKWA Leaders are provided with comprehensive training on child protection/safeguarding, behaviour management and how to provide compassionate care to children who may have been through trauma and abuse. They are prepared with the skills required to support participants, but we also aim to inspire a passion and commitment to social change. Our volunteer Leaders give children their full, undivided attention; affirm them for basic things such as sharing a ball in soccer; sit down at mealtimes and ask children how their day was; at ERCKWA it all comes down to positive relationships. Children on ERCKWA programs have the opportunity to spend quality time with awesome young adult mentors. Our goal is to have them leave our programs in a positive mental state while building confidence, social connections, and community cohesiveness.
