Building Confidence and Connection: 12 Buckets' Impact on Perth’s Youth
Every child deserves a chance to succeed - no matter their background. Since 2010, 12 Buckets have been dedicated to making this a reality for children and young people living in Perth’s northern suburbs.
Founded by Travis Fitch, the organisation started at Balga Primary School with a simple idea: to give kids the same safe, caring connections that helped Travis grow. Today, they provide support for over 500 children each week through mentoring, school programs, and community activities, all grounded in the Circle of Courage framework—belonging, mastery, generosity, and independence.
12 Buckets CEO Larissa Muir, explains, “Our goal is to help children believe in themselves, no matter what challenges they face. We want every child to know they matter and have a safe place to grow and learn.
“We see firsthand how a kind word, a listening ear, or a small act of support can change a child’s day—and sometimes, their whole future. Programs like in-school mentoring, breakfast clubs, and the GiveWrite stationery initiative help remove barriers so kids can focus on learning and having fun.”
Larissa emphasizes the importance of early intervention, especially for children living in poverty. Many of these children arrive at school hungry, worried about their homes, or feeling left out. “Poverty affects not just their resources but also their confidence and ability to connect with others”
At 12 Buckets, kids have expressed what truly matters to them — and it’s powerful. They speak of feeling safe and welcome, where “everyone’s kind” and they can “just be themselves,” even when that’s not possible at home. They value being seen and believed in, saying things like “you listen to me” and “you believe I can do hard things.” Through the program, they’re learning skills and growing in confidence, from making friends to calming down more easily and even preparing for future opportunities.
The impact of positive relationships and belonging is clear — “I’ve got more friends now” and “I like coming to school on 12 Buckets days” are some of their comments. Kids also cherish fun, choice, and mastery, enjoying the chance to try new things and show what they’re good at — like Spencer in Year 6, who proudly shared, “I taught a mentor how to kick a football properly!” Most importantly, they trust in the consistency and care they receive: “You always come back,” one child said. These voices remind us that what 12 Buckets offers is more than a program — it’s a place where young people feel valued, capable, and connected.
“When kids feel safe and supported, they open up, try new things, and start to believe in themselves,” added Larissa.
Thanks to generous partners and dedicated volunteers, 12 Buckets can continue providing these vital services. Larissa said, “Without our community partners, we couldn’t do what we do. Their support allows us to create a safe space for children and build meaningful relationships that last.”
Through programs rooted in care and connection, 12 Buckets is transforming lives—one child at a time—showing every young person that they are valued, capable, and ready to succeed.
To learn more and support 12 Buckets, go to: 12buckets.org