iDareDream is a West Australian charity supporting both the Grandparents and the Grandchildren they are raising due to the parents’ mental ill-health, substance abuse, violent relationships or incarceration. The traumatic experiences these children have usually witnessed can negatively impact brain development, particularly the area responsible for self-image, resulting in feelings of worthlessness and self-blame. This in turn, affects behaviour and emotional and social development, making the child more susceptible to poor life choices in the teenage years. iDareDream believes the most effective way to disrupt this destructive cycle is to provide these children opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities and programs where they can discover innate talents, learn new skills and, most importantly, feel a sense of belonging and connection within the wider community. Unfortunately, such activities are usually well outside the limited financial means of Grandparent carers, most of whom already struggle to meet the many daily expenses of raising a second generation in their later years. Grandparents also feel isolated and need our support. Many have lost family support due to the behaviour of their wayward child, and with the unexpected need to take care of this new generation they now suffer the added loss of long-term friends who are engaging in child-free activities. iDareDream offers a membership-based community providing Grandcarers companionship and connection through regular coffee mornings and family activities. Members also have access to a data base of resources including initial legal advice and referral to family mediation processes. If you know a grandparent raising their grandchild who might like to become part of our extended family or learn more about our services, please invite them to contact us: mob. 0438 924 424 or email info@idaredream.org.au Thank you.