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From trauma to triumph: How our team heals heartbroken children

Since 1958, Girls & Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA) has been a sanctuary for healing heartbroken children, guiding them towards a brighter future. Our mission focuses on mending the invisible wounds of children who have faced unimaginable challenges, offering them a nurturing environment where they can reclaim their joy and build self-worth. We provide tailored therapeutic programs that help these vulnerable children embark on a transformative healing journey.  

Behind every success story at Girls and Boys Town SA lies a dedicated Residential Multi- Disciplinary Team committed to transforming trauma into triumph.

Our team comprises social workers, child and youth care workers, and learning support tutors who work tirelessly to empower our youth with quality education, create a safe and a nurturing environment for the youth in our care. While the outcomes of their interventions are remarkable, the processes behind the scenes are equally noteworthy and offer valuable lessons for other non- profit professionals.

Behind every success story at Girls and Boys Town SA lies a dedicated Residential Multi- Disciplinary Team committed to transforming trauma into triumph.

Collaborative efforts for holistic care

Our team’s approach is deeply collaborative. Social workers focus on psychological healing, child and youth care workers provide day-to-day support and mentorship, and the Learning Support Team designs personalized Educational Plans to address each child's academic challenges. Regular case conferences ensure seamless communication and alignment on each child’s developmental goals.

Self-care in a challenging role

Working with trauma-affected children requires immense emotional resilience. To sustain their well- being, team members have access to regular debriefing sessions, professional supervision, and mental health resources. Staff members are encouraged to take breaks and participate in wellness programs to recharge.

Organisational support

Girls and Boys Town SA invests in continuous professional development for our team. Regular training sessions, both internally and externally, on trauma-informed care and value-based education equip them with tools to address the evolving needs of our youth. The organisation also fosters a culture of appreciation, where successes—big and small—are celebrated collectively.

Impactful outcomes

The collaborative efforts and organisational support translate into tangible successes. In 2023, our Learning Support Team’s intervention strategies led to improved academic results, increased school attendance, and reduced school refusal rates. The team’s commitment inspired youth to not only complete their education but also pursue higher studies and vocational training, breaking the cycle of trauma.

Key takeaways for non-profits

For non-profit professionals facing similar challenges, here are some practical tips from our experience:

  1. Prioritise team well-being: Equip your team with resources to maintain their mental and emotional health.
  2. Foster collaboration: Create systems that encourage multidisciplinary teamwork to address complex needs.
  3. Celebrate milestones: Recognise and reward successes to boost morale and motivation.
  4. Invest in development: Provide ongoing training to keep your team equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.

The achievements at Girls and Boys Town SA are a testament to the power of collective effort, thoughtful interventions, and a strong support system. We hope our journey inspires and informs your own work with vulnerable communities. 

Find out more on our website: https://girlsandboystown.org.za/

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