OUR FOUNDER
From small beginnings, great things grow.
Travis Fitch, the founder of 12 Buckets, is passionate about empowering young people to reach their full potential.
“At 12 Buckets, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive in an environment where they feel seen, heard, and valued. The programs are designed to not only support their immediate needs but also to build the confidence, resilience, and skills they need for long-term success. It’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends beyond the individual to strengthen entire communities.”
– Travis Fitch, Founder of 12 Buckets
Inspired by the support he received during challenging times in his own youth, Travis, along with two friends launched 12 Buckets in 2010 as a way to give back to the community. Starting at Balga Primary School, the program began with in-school mentoring for primary students, quickly demonstrating positive results and expanding with the help of the community.
Today, 12 Buckets thrives through the generosity of individuals, volunteers, donors, local businesses, and councils, remaining steadfast in its mission to foster resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. As we celebrate 15 years in 2025, the program continues to rely solely on community support, with no government funding, staying true to its 2010 vision of investing in the social and emotional wellbeing of young people needing the support of the 12 Buckets community as they develop their own pathway of purpose. This dedication creates a meaningful impact on individual lives and the broader community.
THE FOUNDING TREE
First Nations artist Shannon Walding was commissioned to create a special artwork for Founder, Travis Fitch, inspired by his words:
“I planted a seed that others came and watered and tended to with me. It became a rugged and spacious tree that offered shade, shelter and structure for someone to climb. The seed wasn’t mine, it was a seed that we all tended to, caring and nurturing it as it grew”
At the base of the tree, three figures sit around a campfire, representing the original friends whose vision sparked this journey. The campfire is surrounded by symbols of culture, teamwork, and the dedication that has helped the tree flourish. As the branches reach upward, they reflect a culture that continues to grow and expand.
Black markings encircling the tree symbolize the wider community. Footprints leading away from the tree represent the children nurtured by 12 Buckets, now leaving its safety to embark on their own unique journeys.
Circle of Courage
The Circle of Courage serves as the foundational guiding principles for all 12 Buckets programs, shaping our approach to supporting our young people.
It originates from Native American philosophies of child-rearing and is centred on the four key pillars of the essential growth needs of children—Belonging, Mastery, Generosity, and Independence—it highlights the holistic development of each individual.
By fostering a sense of Belonging, our young people feel connected and valued within their community.
Mastery encourages skill-building and confidence, while Generosity inspires giving back and contributing to others.
Independence promotes decision-making and resilience, empowering our young people to navigate challenges.
The Circle of Courage shapes every aspect of 12 Buckets’ support system, ensuring programs nurture the social and emotional wellbeing of each young person.
Why We’re Called 12 Buckets
12 Buckets takes its name from the Circle of Courage framework. Each of these areas is supported by four guiding principles.
Belonging includes co-operation, inclusion and friendship.
Mastery includes learning, creativity, and organisation.
Generosity includes kindness, forgiveness, and support.
Independence includes decision-making, self-discipline, and leadership.
Together, these 12 focus points make up the “12 Buckets” that guide our mentoring approach and shape the way we support young people.
