Youth Futures
Lab 385 created an inclusive, mobile-first platform that connects vulnerable youth with critical support services while empowering staff with real-time content management capabilities.
Creating digital pathways
for vulnerable youth and community support
Youth Futures WA supports young people across Western Australia through homelessness services, education programs, and long-term life support. The opportunity existed to create a digital platform that would match the depth and importance of their work while serving the diverse needs of their audiences.
Mobile access was critical. Many young clients accessed the internet solely through smartphones, yet the existing digital presence was not responsive. Navigation proved difficult, service pathways remained unclear, and real-time updates were impossible. Staff found themselves reliant on external support for even the smallest content changes, a significant challenge when program availability could shift daily.
The vision extended beyond technical improvements. There was a profound opportunity to bridge the gap between the organisation's real-world impact and how that impact was represented online. Donors and supporters needed clear, authentic storytelling. Young people needed direct access to help. The platform needed to serve both groups equally while staying true to Youth Futures' mission of supporting vulnerable youth.
Mobile Access
Optimised experience for youth accessing support on smartphones.
Audience Clarity
Clearer pathways for both help-seekers and supporters.
Operational Agility
Internal content updates made easy and efficient.
Strategic Discovery and User-Led Architecture
The project began with in-depth workshops to understand internal goals, service structure, and the realities of working in high-pressure community settings. The redesign was built around supporting the mission and the people who rely on it.
Foundation Analysis
- Mapped core user journeys
- Audited service visibility barriers
- Confirmed mobile-first requirement
- Identified stakeholder needs
Platform Strategy
- Restructured audience-based navigation
- Built pathways to core programs
- Integrated donation options
- Selected staff-friendly CMS
Custom Development
- Mobile-first responsive templates
- Visual storytelling integration
- Donation system implementation
- Accessibility optimisation
Content Migration
- Service area content transfer
- Program information restructure
- Story and impact integration
- Resource consolidation
Training & Launch
- CMS training delivery
- Documentation provision
- Independence enablement
- Platform handover
Inclusive Platform Supporting Mission and Growth
Lab 385 delivered a mobile-first website that supports fast, intuitive access for young people seeking help while empowering internal teams with real-time content control and providing supporters with clear pathways to contribute.
Mobile-Responsive Design
Accessible for young people browsing on smartphones
Content Independence
Staff can update pages and services in real time
Streamlined Donations
Integrated system reducing friction and encouraging giving
User-Led Navigation
Help and support pages surfaced clearly and simply
Visual Storytelling
Real stories bringing the mission to life authentically
Service Discovery
Clear pathways to homelessness, education, and support services