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Wellness Kit

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Founder & Executive Director 
Chris Jones

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

Executive Program Coordinator
Rachel Gaunt

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.

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Executive Community Engagement
& Youth Liaison Officer
Emma Griffin

As an integral member of our executive team as Community Engagement and youth Liaison Officer 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, Working With Young People, 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

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Wellbeing Worker, Parent/Carer Educator & Mentor
Elizabeth Yeomans

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Wellbeing Worker & Mentor
Kayla Seymour

Program Faciltator
Mat Jones

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Wellbeing Worker
Trinity Maurer

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Mentor
Ky Coburn

Mentor
Kurt Linde

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NDIS Support
Maureen Dunn

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Mentor
Jarad Leyshon

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Mentor
Guy Finn

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Welcome to the LIVEfree journey and thank you for joining our community!

 

Watch your inbox for updates on our work supporting Newcastle.

 

Your support is invaluable; reach out on our website or socials for more information.

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LIVEfree PROJECT
486 Glebe Rd, Adamstown 
Ph: 0412429193       
info@livefreeproject.org.au


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LIVEfree PROJECT Incorporated      ABN 64 916 654 924

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