The journey here

Growing up, Sallie developed a quiet but determined faith. At age 16, Sal stepped out of the safety of Friday night Presbyterian youth group and into a new youth drop-in centre, the first of its kind in Launceston. It was set up by a group of young caring Christians with a plan of bringing hope to other young people. It was called Jonah’s Place and opened on Friday and Saturday nights and later opened on weekdays as well. Sallie continued to volunteer there while training to be an infant teacher.

Sallie immediately connected with young women who were already on their way to become young mothers. Sal could never get those young mums and their children out of her heart and mind. Although not a conscious thought it was perhaps these early experiences that were the very beginnings of what was to become The Families Course©.

Married at 22 Sallie dedicated the next 28 years to raising her four children and making space for others in her home. Then, 15 years ago Sallie came across a Parenting Course called “Enjoying Families” and took it on as a project to share it with others. Through those years with the blessing of the original author, Sallie has written a whole new course from scratch and with the help of close friends Kath, Joy and Jane has been putting the final touches to the course ready to meet the growing demand.

Without any budget, Sallie has worked as a volunteer for over 30 years dedicating herself to helping those who were not as fortunate as her.

The Families Course© is now growing around Australia and has been well accepted overseas. There’s a training and support system in place for trainers and a growing team of people who love to teach the course and support other families.

Not many of us get to establish something which truly affects the lives of thousands. Sallie already has and now will likely see this precious course grow to affect tens of thousands.