Navigating parenthood—especially while juggling work, education, or career changes—can feel overwhelming.
Through the Parent Pathways program, we’ve seen firsthand the extraordinary potential of parents who are provided with the right support, resources, and guidance.
In the Coffs Harbour community, our dedicated mentor Caryl Jarrett has walked alongside many parents as they navigate their path to success. Caryl notes that transportation and childcare consistently emerge as the most significant practical hurdles parents face. Without reliable childcare or transport, many parents find it incredibly difficult to explore job or study opportunities. The lack of these fundamental supports can lead to missed chances for personal or professional growth.
Our approach at Parent Pathways addresses these obstacles head-on, through practical solutions.
Examples of help with transportation include:
- Covering the cost of driving lessons and driving tests
- Assistance with obtaining vehicle insurance cover
- Assistance with obtaining work-related licenses
- Ensuring that vehicles are safe and roadworthy
Meanwhile, childcare assistance looks like:
- Help with navigating and applying for the childcare subsidy
- Covering childcare enrolment fees
- Forming partnerships with local childcare providers to offer priority placement or discounted rates
Caryl adds:
“Some parents come into the program feeling unsupported or lacking motivation, unsure of where to turn for guidance.”
But when parents see themselves successfully completing even small tasks, their self-belief grows.
“At Parent Pathways, we break down these goals into achievable milestones helps them realize that progress is within reach.”
No two families are alike, so the priority is always building trust and rapport.
Caryl explains that by actively listening to their concerns and aspirations, mentors help parents pinpoint their unique objectives.
From there, it’s an ongoing partnership: mentors provide regular check-ins, emotional support, and practical resources to keep parents focused on their goals.
However, financial constraints—such as course fees or childcare costs—often stand in the way of personal and professional development.
Through Parent Pathways, families learn about available funding, subsidies, or grants that can alleviate these burdens. For many single parents, even a small amount of financial relief can make a dramatic difference.
As Caryl describes:
“Once parents realise that there is help available, they feel empowered to take control of their futures”
Parent Pathways exists to bridge gaps and offer resources. Each step—be it finding childcare, mapping out a career path, or tapping into financial assistance—becomes an opportunity for personal growth. We’re helping parents transform challenges into stepping stones toward brighter, more fulfilling futures.
