Meet The Team

As our Executive Director Chris has had a wide range of experiences that allow her a depth of knowledge, practise, engagement and respect from her peers extends not only in community work, but also into the business and non-for-profit sector.  

 

Chris has pioneered the work of LIVEfree project and has shaped its coal face, grassroots reach into the community from its very conception, giving community a voice, a strong foundation of genuine concern and an opportunity where mutual exchange of respect and journey has been embraced.

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Chris’ areas of knowledge in wellbeing, welfare and community have not only come from working with those challenges associated in low socio-economic communities within Newcastle and her surrounds, but also from relief and aid work abroad with those experiencing abject poverty, disaster and ongoing effects of trauma and violence in Uganda, Thailand, Philippines, and Nepal. In all these places working particularly with young people, children, and women as they establish life again and reshape a safer future for themselves connected with trusted relationships within community. The model of community care that Chris continues to vision cast for LIVEfree culturally embraces awareness, diversity, and community engagement.

 

“Our lived experience together teaches us; continues to shape our planning and help us navigate brighter futures for those found within our local community”

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• Nomination for Citizen of the year for City of Newcastle 2023

• Winner of Westfields Local Hero 2021

• Finalist for Westfield Local Hero 2021

• Nomination for Westfield Local Hero 2021& 2020

• Chaplaincy Australia Unsung Hero Award for Service to Australia in area of Chaplaincy 2019

• Nomination for Westfield Local Hero Nomination 2019

• Pride of Australia Nomination 2017

Rachel stands as a seasoned Program Coordinator, steering our team with proficiency across diverse domains. Armed with expertise in Wellbeing, Community and Indigenous Studies, Counselling, Tertiary and Early Childhood Education, Disability Support, and Trauma, Rachel is a cornerstone of our executive team. 

 

Having commenced her journey with the LIVEfree Project in 2018, initially contributing to the Inspire Women's Program, Rachel seamlessly transitioned into the pivotal role of Executive Programs Coordinator in 2022.

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In her role as Executive Program Coordinator, Rachel spearheads the development and execution of programs tailored to meet the distinctive needs of individuals and communities under our care. Her fervor for instigating positive change and empowering individuals to embrace their optimal lives defines her professional ethos. Rachel's profound experience in trauma and lived experiences is an invaluable asset, enabling her to engage with empathy and comprehension when addressing those navigating challenging circumstances.

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Rachel is a dedicated and compassionate professional who is committed to coming alongside and helping people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Her expertise and leadership are essential to the success of our organisation, and we are proud to have her as a part of our team.

As an integral member of our executive team as Wellbeing and Community Engagement Officer, Emma brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, having worked extensively in various fields such as Mental Health, Disability, Community Services, Wellbeing, Education and Training. 

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Additionally, she has experience in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care, Therapeutic Education, NDIS Support, Mentoring, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation and Self-Injury Management, as well as P.A and administration and media and events. Her diverse skillset enables her to offer comprehensive support to our clients and help them achieve their goal. 

 

Emma not only spearheads grant writing for LIVEfree Project, coordinating vital funding efforts, but also plays a pivotal role in facilitating our programs for young people of our city. In addition, she provides individual mentoring and skilfully manages case coordination, ensuring a holistic and impactful approach to our community initiatives.

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Emma is a valuable member of our team and is dedicated to supporting the wellbeing and resilience of our staff and clients, focusing particularly on at-risk high school students within our community. Emma is not just a professional; she's affectionately known as Aunty Em or simply Em to the children and youth we work with. In a role demanding empathy and understanding, Emma intentionally building relationships with each child. She takes the time to understand their stories, ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.

Taylah brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role, offering support to clients through her extensive experience. She is adept at planning and implementing activities that cater to diverse needs, ensuring a holistic approach to client care.

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In addition to her hands-on experience, Taylah has completed units of study in Child Protection, Early-Childhood Education, Personal Training and Cooking, and is currently working towards a degree in Social Work. Her academic background, combined with her practical experience, allows her to support clients effectively, aligning with their goals and capacities.

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Taylah's commitment to her work is evident in her proactive approach, consistently taking initiative and going above and beyond in her tasks. She applies theoretical knowledge to practical situations with remarkable competence, demonstrating a deep understanding of her field.

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Taylah is an invaluable asset to our team, dedicated to helping each client reach their unique and full potential. We are proud to have her as part of our team and are confident in her ability to make a lasting impact on our community.

Mandy Homard is delighted to be working with the LIVEfree team.  With a background in Social Work, Mandy has worked with children and young people across numerous fields over the past 20 years, including Mental Health Services, Education, Homelessness and Family Work. 

 

Her passion is early intervention and helping people find their strength in hard places.  She currently spends lots of time working in schools to support students with learning, wellbeing and social and emotional skills. 

 

Mandy has a gentle curiosity and loves listening to the stories of children and young people around her.  Her quiet mission is to make sure every child feels seen and heard and knows their worth.  LIVEfree Project are grateful for the experience and skills she brings to both our team and community. 

Elizabeth brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, having worked extensively in various fields such as Paediatric & Community Nursing, Midwifery, Birth and Parenting Education, Youth Support, Management, Tertiary Education and Training and Community Services. 

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Additionally, she has experience in Pastoral Care, Team Building, NDIS Support, Mentoring, Trauma, Financial Support, Domestic Violence and Family Dysfunction Her diverse skillset enables her to offer comprehensive support to our clients and help them achieve their goals. 

 

Our team is privileged to have Elizabeth as a member who brings immense value with her dedication towards supporting the wellbeing and resilience of our staff and clients. We appreciate her unwavering commitment towards making a positive impact on our community and are confident that she will continue to do so.

Susan brings a wealth of experience to her role having worked in the corporate world and charitable organisations for over 35 years.

 

Covering a diverse range of skills including civic and community support, mindfulness, creative therapies, NDIS support work, mental health, and disability.

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Susan believes everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and kindness being able to live a full and rewarding life and strives to bring positivity, inclusion and kindness to everything she does.

Maureen who holds her Cert IV in Pastoral Care  has had wide range of experience both in community and in the school sector. Maureen is excited to be part of our LIVEfree Project team where she supports individuals as part of our Wellbeing Team and NDIS support work.

 

Maureen works alongside of individuals who have challenges and need support, placing value and on their uniqueness and striving to give them autonomy, dignity, choice and encouragement around their day to day activities.

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Maureen has a heart for building a nurturing and diverse community; rich in support and quality care so that individuals can thrive irrespective of their complex circumstances. Maureen is determined to empower and increase capacity and self determination.

 

Maureen has a background working with young people, people living with disability, she is an advocate and passionate in her support for those who are experiencing mental health. Maureen has had a wide range of experience with all ages, supporting people and students in their pursuit of a life that is vibrant and fulfilling.

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We are incredibly grateful to have Maureen on the LIVEfree Project team, where her dedication to nurturing a diverse and supportive community shines through her work, empowering individuals to thrive regardless of their circumstances.

Meet Trinity, one of our devoted Wellbeing Workers, whose journey is marked by kindness, empathy, and a genuine love for helping people achieve their unique goals. With a background and qualifications in Education Support and years of selfless volunteer work with the LIVEfree Project, Trinity has not only been a trusted Bus Driver but has also assisted in helping facilitate the success of our youth programs.

 

Trinity is characterised by her kindness. Her genuine care for the wellbeing of others is evident in every interaction, making her a beacon of support. We are so excited to have Trinity as part of the team here at LIVEfree Project.