Who We Are.
Brooke Young
Brooke Young is the founder of The Fort Learning Community, a mother of two, an educator, and a passionate advocate for children and families. Her own children have been some of her greatest teachers, deepening her understanding of how important it is for children to feel seen, supported, and valued as they are.
With a Bachelor of Education, studies in First Nations Studies and psychology, and more than 15 years of experience in public education, Brooke is passionate about creating inclusive, relationship-centred spaces where children can thrive. Her approach is further informed by professional learning in cultural awareness, cultural safety and authenticity, the nervous system, and understanding behaviour, as well as the work of leading voices including Mona Delahooke, Ross Greene, Gabor Maté, Robyn Gobbel, Carolyn Roberts, and Robin Wall Kimmerer.
As a Métis woman, Brooke values honouring each child’s culture and identity as an important part of building meaningful relationships and a true sense of belonging. Guided by both professional learning and a lifetime of lived experience, she is committed to creating a place where children and families feel understood, supported, and connected.

Carolyn McCarthy
Carolyn is passionate about working with children and families—offering support, fostering connection, and empowering them to recognize their own strengths. With a background in family support, child and youth mental health, and community-based programs, she prides herself on helping individuals and families connect with the vital resources available in our amazing community.
As a neurodivergent parent to one Autistic (AuDHD) child and another with ADHD, she deeply understands the unique needs of families like hers and feels privileged to work alongside them. When she isn't at the Fort, she is pursuing her Master’s in Counseling, focusing her research on mixed-neurotype families and how parents navigate diverse needs across the whole family system.
In her free time, you can find her piecing together yet another jigsaw puzzle, beachcombing, or exploring the beautiful forest trails that surround the Comox Valley.
