About us
The Foundry by SYC creates opportunities for young people to make sense of the world around them. We help them realise their strengths, build a positive network of friendships and support, and have the confidence to explore new pathways.
The Foundry is one of the only services in the Adelaide CBD that provides a safe, inclusive space for young people to learn, create, share, connect and build skills for lasting independence.
Our open access youth service empowers young people to discover their passion, increase their wellbeing and connect with their communities.
How we help
When a young person isn’t sure what their next step is, The Foundry can provide a new direction and the support required to take that step.
Positive Personal & Community Development
Education & Employment Opportunities
Connection to Services & Access to Amenities
Mental Health & Counselling Pathways
Many young people who access The Foundry have experienced housing insecurity or homelessness, family violence, the justice system or are living with a disability.
We know a safe space to connect with opportunities and services is essential. 30.6% of South Australian young people surveyed* experienced low mental health, stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or self-harm. 27.1% felt lonely all or most of the time.*
Our team help young people connect with services, empowering them with the skills for living, learning and working. Through the positive relationships we build, we support young people to grow their capacity to overcome challenges and work towards their personal, educational or training goals.
“It wouldn’t be The Foundry without the people. It’s the people who give it life. They are proactive and want to help. The Foundry turned life on its head. I had no friends, I had no food, I had no bed. To have an opportunity to continue and not spiral down was something I’ll be forever grateful for.”
– Liam*Before discovering The Foundry just under a year ago, Liam* was sleeping rough in car parks around the CBD. They stumbled on The Foundry after a particularly rough night.
With support to connect with housing providers, Liam was able to secure public housing and, having found a safe place to call home, continued to meet with our youth engagement team.
Liam is now on a path to a brighter future and is just one of many young people who participates in our career programs and cooking classes, gaining skills to support their journey to independence.
How you can help
Your donation directly supports the incredible activities provided at The Foundry and other unfunded activities throughout our youth services. With your support, we can extend our impact in the community, creating positive experiences and outcomes for the young people we work with.
Your donation can contribute towards items and supports, such as:
$50
The provision of pantry essentials so a young person can prepare their own meals.
$150
Providing clothing and toiletries so a young person can engage with education or work opportunities.
$200
Providing a young person with household items such as bed linen and basic appliances.
$500
Helping a young person connect with opportunities and access to group programs and activities.
$1,000
10 sessions with a youth specialist counsellor for a young person struggling with their mental health.
