Supporting children and families to thrive

During the 1930s there was no universal free kindergarten in Victoria. Peter Goodman, now in his nineties, recalls many conversations about child welfare in his family home. His mother, Silvia, was a leading light in the free kindergarten campaign. “I was very aware of what was going on,” he says. “Even as a boy, I heard a lot about what little was being done for disadvantaged children.”

This commitment to social justice had a strong influence on Peter, who built a family footwear business. He has a longstanding interest in giving back to the community.

“I focus on small children,” says Peter, “If you can help when they are young and steer them in the right way, it is better for them and better for the community.”

After many years of philanthropy and engaging his family in giving, Peter is now handing over the reins of the family foundation D33 to two of his grandchildren, Harry Heyworth and Maddy Goodman.

Harry has his own business and enjoys researching the evidence and impact of not-for-profit organisations. “Maddy and I are excited to see how we can navigate the foundation in the future,” he says.

Harry sees opportunities for young people who want to take part in philanthropic work via researching the impact of giving. Maddy is hoping to study education and is also inspired by the work of her grandfather, Peter, and great grandmother, Sylvia. “It is a privilege to be part of that legacy and keep it going,” she says.

The Goodman Family Foundation has supported Brotherhood programs since 2012 and, most recently, the Brotherhood’s Growing Learners program. It uses an evidence-based approach to supporting children under three to socialise and prepare for school.  The program also boosts parents’ financial stability through employment and education.