Children of Phoenix Testimonials

Letter of appreciation from a survivor:

I am writing to say a very big Thank You to the following people who are tirelessly working for the foundation called the "Children of Phoenix."

This foundation was established by Dr. Caroline Taylor with the vision to help both children and adults who are survivors of sexual abuse. Being a survivor herself of terrible childhood abuse, Caroline decided that a foundation was desperately needed to pass on the important and lifesaving educational skills that gave not just formal education but the ability to broaden horizons of life etc. Dr. Taylor wanted to see a foundation that would help others grow and reach their full potential and to ensure they did not travel alone, as she did. Her foundation is growing and I would also like to thank Rachel Kinscher who is the executive director, and Sharon Mudge, who is a board member of this wonderful foundation. The help and assistance and positive support that all these lovely ladies have shown me, has not only given myself but other survivors just like me a chance of a new start, with tools to help getting started along the way. I don't know of any other foundation that willing gives you the opportunity to get back to school as an adult and take courses so that you can get an education to make a new start in life, complete with help and continuing support along the way, all with no strings attached. What a wonderful and generous idea. From reading Dr. Taylor's work I understand her passion that this was the best way to help others to achieve and to heal. I hope that Ballarat businesses and the general public realise how fortunate they are to have this wonderful facility in their own backyard, and I hope that everyone will get behind this foundation and help it grow into something that all Victorians will be proud of. Lots of other volunteers help with this foundation and all I have met since the foundation began to assist me, have been nothing but kind, gentle and supporting. Well done to everybody who helps this foundation, either with time or donations. You are all doing a great job.

Many thanks, (Name and address withheld)

Letter of appreciation from a funding recipient:

On November 29^th 2007, Young Women’s Secure Welfare opened its annual art exhibition as part of the International 16 Days Against Gender Violence. The exhibition is an annual art therapy event that raises awareness about sexual violence within Victoria and gives young women survivors of violence the opportunity to express their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. 

Each year the show aims to raise funds for new resources to ensure the ongoing operation of the art therapy program at Secure Welfare. The goal of the 2007 Inside Out exhibition was to raise funds to purchase a computerised baby to address the problem of adolescence pregnancy. The Children of Phoenix Foundation realised this goal for us by generously donating a computerised baby, in addition to providing training to the staff at Secure Welfare in the operation of the resource. The magnitude of the donation far exceeded our expectations and has provided many young women across Victoria with the opportunity to make an informed decision about pregnancy.

Jane (14yrs), a client of Secure Welfare who attended the first session of using the computerised baby stated that " The baby was so cute, but it freaked me out when it started crying and I couldn't stop it...it better playing with my friend's kid...after the group with the baby, I’ve decided that I don't want a baby all the time...not yet"

The art therapy program at Secure Welfare facilitates the creative process of making art that is healing and life-enhancing. The program focuses on increasing self-awareness in order to cope with traumatic experiences, and to enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of artistic creativity.

The Children of Phoenix, by donating one thousand dollars to the Art Therapy Program, has assisted young Victorian women to access this service when held in Secure Welfare. The program relies heavily on community contributions for its ongoing operation and without the generous support of organisations such as the Children of Phoenix would find it difficult to continue its valuable work with such vulnerable young women. The foundation’s support was the largest donation for 2007 and has consequently funded art materials for four months.

On behalf of the staff, the young women and the art therapy program I would like to express my ongoing gratitude to the Children of Phoenix Foundation for providing to our service such a wonderful educational resource as the computerised baby as well as essential art supplies. Their generiousity demonstrates an active and genuine approach to supporting individuals who are victims and survivors of gendered violence. 
 
Many thanks,
 
Rebekah Oppenheim
The Art Therapy Program Coordinato

A Testimonial Poem, for the Children of Phoenix

Consequences of abuse are immense
Leaving the innocent affected, changed and tense
Confidence ripped, immeasurable pain
Self esteem destroyed
Seemingly endless darkness remains
With no way out, no one can hear or understand
We lose ourselves, forgetting our dreams and plans
Worthlessness is what we learn to know
To hate ourselves, no good to show

This happened to me, but I was so blessed
I recieved help and support from some of the best
Without me knowing how or why, 
There really were others who could hear my cry
I was not worthless, I need not be ashamed
I was a child, I was not to blame

Children of Phoenix came to my aide
A University Graduate, I now proudly parade
It may have taken me twice as long
But my current Masters course is what makes my new song
Education and learning I now embrace
The keys to a future, with no disgrace.

Thank you Phoenix, thank you so much
It was just what I needed, such a gentle touch
With my confidence back, I believe in myself
And strive to help others as you do, and pass on the wealth

J. Turnley