For a community that uplifts every young person

The Village is a local, community-led charity based in Maclean, NSW.

We empower young people and families through inclusive, trauma-informed programs that build resilience, connection, and hope across the Clarence Valley.

The Village is a community that puts young people and families first.

The Village Inc. is a Not-for-Profit organisation based in Maclean, NSW, committed to delivering holistic, trauma-informed support to at-risk young people and their families in the Clarence Valley.

Through a full-time, community-led, place-based hub, The Village offers programs that build resilience, reduce disadvantage, and promote wellbeing.

❊ Our Mission

Business as usual hasn’t worked for young people in the Clarence Valley. Disconnection, disadvantage, and limited access to services continue to hold families back, and it’s time for a new approach.

The Village brings together community voices, schools, and local services to create change from the ground up. Our trauma-informed, place-based model strengthens connection, builds life skills, and helps young people reclaim hope and purpose.

Yet too many young people still fall through the cracks. Not because they lack potential, but because the systems around them don’t meet their needs.

By working collaboratively and testing what works locally, we’re building a model that can be replicated in other regional communities through inclusive, trauma-informed support that nurtures connection, personal growth, and self-determination.

Together, we can rewrite the story for regional youth — because it truly takes a village.

What Is The Need?

Local consultations and youth forums highlight that young people feel unheard, disconnected, and underserved, calling for greater access to inclusive, safe, and engaging spaces.

  • 14.13% of offences committed by youth (2023–24)

  • 32% increase in youth custody rates since 2023

  • Elevated rates of educational disengagement (14.2% of 15–24-year-olds)

  • Limited access to mental health, AOD, and family support services with significant service gaps in the Lower Clarence

Our Evidence-Based Frameworks:

Circle of Courage

Promotes belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity.

Help Way Earlier! Report

Advocates for early, culturally safe, and relationship-based interventions.

NSW TEI Program

Supports integrated, early intervention strategies aligned with state priorities.

Our Values

  • Community-Centered

    Driven by local voices

  • Inclusivity

    Accessible to all

  • Empowerment

    Strength-based and choice-driven

  • Collaboration

    Connected to schools, services, and community groups

  • Accountability

    Committed to measurable impact

❊ Programs & Services

For Young People (8–18 years):

Life skills, literacy, and youth drop-ins

Mental health first aid and AOD harm reduction

Healthy relationships education

Volunteering and social connection events

One-on-one case coordination and service referrals

For Parents and Families:

Early intervention and parenting support

Parent cafes, drop-ins, and community education

Referrals for DV, AOD, and other specialist services

For the
Community:

Inclusive events that foster connection

Collaborative partnerships across sectors

Strategic Goals

Year 1:

• Establish hub in Maclean

  • Launch core programs and co-design model using the Harwood Methodology

Strategic Goals

Year 2:

• Expand offerings and outreach

  • Develop vocational and transport initiatives

  • Build a replicable model for other regional communities

Founded by three experienced professionals.

Kath Arndell

Allira Newton

Andrea Nikas

The Village brings over 50 years of collective expertise in youth work, community development, and social welfare. The organisation is governed by a diverse and skilled board committed to ethical, trauma-informed practice

Who We Are

Success will be tracked through:

  • Participation and retention metrics

  • Reduced youth crime with ROSH reports

  • Improved family outcomes

  • Stakeholder feedback and annual reports

We Invite You To Partner With Us

The Village is a local solution to a local crisis. We invite you to partner with us to:

  • Break intergenerational cycles of disadvantage

  • Build stronger, connected communities

  • Empower young people to achieve their full potential