WHEN Peter and Linda Grieve started The Cage Youth Foundation at Capalaba 25 years ago, they could only imagine the impact the organisation would have on young people and families across the Redlands.
Today, the foundation has grown into one of the region’s most recognised community support organisations, with thousands of young people accessing its programs every year.
Last year alone, The Cage engaged 9604 young people through its school program, 11,970 through its breakfast club, counselled 480 youth, supported 194 through wellbeing programs, provided community care to 315 people and connected with 2076 people through The Cage works team.
For co-founder Linda Grieve, those numbers reflect a growing need within the community.
“There are so many factors,” she said.
“There’s the cost of living, working parents, children being left to their own devices, break downs in the family unit, increased crime, increased truancy and a general lack of respect.
“All of this takes its toll.”
Ms Grieve said it was increasingly common to see grandparents stepping into parenting roles as families struggled with rising costs.
“It’s a tough gig. I don’t think parenting is as easy as it has been,” she said.
“We like to offer a safe space where kids can come and take ownership.
“We have one rule and that is respect – respect for the property, for one another and for what we do.
“Respect goes a long way.”
Over the past quarter century, The Cage has evolved to meet the changing needs of the Redlands community, offering counselling, emotional support, youth development, mentoring, school support programs, community outreach and social enterprises.
Ms Grieve said the organisation’s focus had always been on creating connection and hope.
“I like to think that through compassion, connection and practical support, the foundation had become a place where people feel seen and valued,” she said.
“Services and programs are designed to strengthen lives and create positive pathways for the future.”
As a self-funded charity, The Cage has relied heavily on community backing and innovative fundraising efforts to continue its work.
“As a self-funded charity, The Cage continues to lead by example, creating innovative ways to give back while remaining deeply connected to the people of the community,” she said.
“For 25 years, our mission has always been about making a difference in the lives of others.
“Community is at the heart of everything we do.”
The organisation’s annual Go Mad Gala fundraiser will be held from 6pm on June 5 at Lurleen’s Restaurant at Sirromet Wines.
Ms Grieve said organisers hoped to raise $50,000 to support The Cage’s ongoing programs and services.
The evening will include silent and live auctions, raffle prizes and entertainment.
Now running for more than a decade, the gala is being held at the winery for the second consecutive year.
Tickets cost $180 and include a two-course sit-down meal with pre-drinks and canapes.
Bookings can be made via linda@thecage.info or by calling 0422 035 044.
