Carla finds her fit and makes a difference

We live in a broken and hurting world. But we know that God can take our past, no matter what we’ve been through, and use it to bring his love and hope to those in need. 

When Carla became a school chaplain four years ago, she felt she’d found her fit. She’d worked in jobs across the social work and community youth work space, but there was something about chaplaincy that stood out to her.

“I come from a broken family. There was domestic violence and divorce. I had no one to support me through that. It’s why I first got into youth work. I wanted to be that stable person for others,” says Carla.

Through school chaplaincy, Carla runs programs and initiatives for young people experiencing grief and loss, as well as running a breakfast club five days a week to feed students who missed out on breakfast. It’s opportunities like these that create welcoming environments for our young people to thrive, be safe and find belonging.

“Not all kids want to kick a ball around at lunchtime – many just want to come and talk with you. Chaplaincy gives you the opportunity to be present and show up for them,” says Carla.

And it’s not just Carla who notices the difference it makes when kids are surrounded by loving support – School Principal, Nic Williams, comments on the difference she’s seen around the school.

“Carla offers a safe and non-judgemental space where students can freely express their emotions and concerns. She organises activities, events, and groups that promote inclusivity, connection and a positive school environment, and this fosters a supportive and caring community where students feel valued.”

“Having a school chaplain at Lavington East PS has been instrumental in enhancing the overall wellbeing of our students,” says Nic.

School chaplains stand in the gap for young people who need someone in their corner. 

For Carla, chaplaincy is about living out the call God has placed on her life to serve others and meet young people where they’re at. 

“It’s about doing life with young people who already face so much. The job can be heavy at times, but I know God has gifted me to do this work. Plus, being around the kids fills me with so much joy – they really energise me!” says Carla.

Your generous support is giving more children and young people across New South Wales access to the loving and compassionate support of trusted and trained school chaplains. To keep this life-changing work going, head to generate.org.au/give.