From Hurt to Healing: How Stronger Families Foundation Rebuilds Lives
- mshoss21
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 13
“I never thought I’d be the dad my daughter deserved…”
These words, shared by a graduate of the Caring Dads program, capture the heart of what the Stronger Families Foundation is all about: helping men change, helping families heal, and giving children the safe, loving homes they deserve.
The Stronger Families Foundation is a not-for-profit community service organization based in Australia, focused on empowering families affected by domestic and family violence. Founded in 2020 by Geoff and Jackie Hart-Davies, the organization has grown into a trusted provider of trauma-informed, evidence-based programs — with a mission to break cycles of intergenerational harm.
Their core initiative, the Caring Dads program, is a globally recognized model that helps fathers who have used violence or coercive behavior learn to parent in safer, healthier ways. Through counselling, group work, and community partnerships, the Foundation is helping parents heal, children thrive, and families grow stronger.
What Makes Stronger Families Different?
Where some services respond after harm is done, Stronger Families works early—offering fathers a chance to take responsibility, rebuild relationships, and learn to parent in healthier, safer ways.
Key initiatives include:
✅ Caring Dads
A 17-week program helping fathers take responsibility and reconnect with their children.
It focuses on safer parenting, trust-building, and positive behaviour change.
✅ Strengthening Families
Offers counselling and support to mothers and children during the father’s change journey.
Helps them heal, feel safe, and build stronger futures together.
✅ Holistic Support Pathway
All programs work together to support the whole family, not just one person.
This creates long-term stability and healthier relationships at home.
✅ Skilled Facilitators
Led by trained professionals like psychologists and social workers.
They understand trauma and guide families with care and expertise.
✅ Community-Driven Strategy
Programs are shaped by local needs and cultural understanding.
They’re delivered in regions like Binjarep/Whadjuk with strong community input
.
Why It Matters More Than Ever?
In Australia, over 2.9 million children have witnessed family or domestic violence. These kids carry trauma that can shape their futures—for better or worse. Stronger Families Foundation steps in to change those trajectories, one family at a time.
“It’s not just about stopping violence. It’s about starting something new—hope, respect, connection.”
— Geoff Hart-Davies, Founder
A Partner in Real Community Change
👥 Why Government and Community Agencies Should Engage
Local governments, NGOs, and health agencies can benefit by adopting Stronger Families Foundation’s approach. Their model offers:
✔ Proven methods for working with at-risk families
✔ Reduced reoffending and improved co-parenting
✔ Measurable outcomes for funding reports
✔ Greater safety and wellbeing in communities
Their program aligns with national strategies for preventing family violence and improving child protection outcomes.
Real Results Worth Supporting
Since 2021:
🎯 Over 1,500 families supported
👨👩👧👦 11 qualified facilitators delivering programs
🌐 Rebranded with new website and community engagement strategy (2024)
🗣️ Actively engaged in state policy conversations and regional advisory boards
These aren’t just numbers—they’re lives redirected, futures rebuilt, and families made whole again.
Student number: 10681620
(Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University and has not been endorsed or otherwise approved by the organization it promotes).
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