Our History
"The only way to achieve anything is to start" - Fr Joe Giacobbe
Doxa was established in 1972 by Father Joe Giacobbe, a young priest who worked with some of Melbourne’s most disadvantaged communities.
During this time he realised that many young people he worked with might never have a holiday or visit the country during their childhood. He decided to establish a camp at Malmsbury to give these young people a positive life experience possibly for the first time, and so Doxa Youth Foundation was born.
From its humble beginnings, hundreds of people have worked together to help make Father Joe’s dream a reality.
To all those who have been part of the story and to all who believe in making a difference, we are both grateful and indebted.
Timeline
1972
Father Joe Giacobbe develops a vision of establishing a camp for young people to experience life away from the city after working in some of Melbourne’s most disadvantaged communities.
1973
A Sportsmen’s Night hosted by Roy Higgins raises $10,000 for Father Joe’s camp concept. This leads to the launch of an official appeal with funding from State and Federal government and a final fundraising figure of $300,000.
1976
Malmsbury Camp is formally opened by Sir Henry Winneke, Governor of Victoria.
1992
The Doxa Cadetship Program is established, offering young people the opportunity of a tertiary education.
2004
Our City Camp is established in Melbourne CBD, giving rural primary school children the chance to experience inner city life.
2007
Doxa School, Bendigo opens its doors for young people experiencing difficulty in the mainstream education system.