Community Development Officer with the City of Darebin and Mubarek, a recent participant in BSL programs.
The Victorian Public Tenants Association has launched a new employment service for young people who live in public housing.
“Shout Out” is a partnership between the VPTA and the Brotherhood of St Lawrence. It will assist young people who live in public housing to find job opportunities that are right for them.
The focus will be on jobs and training. Young people will be helped to be job ready through a tailored program that will include interview preparation and the crafting of resumes and cover letters.
The City of Darebin will assist the program by showing program participants the range of roles that are available with major employers such as local councils.
The Brotherhood of St Laurence has been selected to deliver the program because they have been a leader in innovative employment and training programs in Melbourne for more than 20 years.
Initially, “Shout Out” will work with 24 jobseekers aged between 16 and 30. The program will give these young people a safe and welcoming place to explore their vocational aspirations. They will meet with their worker, and together, create a Pathway Plan to assist them achieve their career goals or meet their training needs.
Seed funding for the program is being provided from the VPTA. If the program is successful, the VPTA will seek ongoing support from charitable and philanthropic foundations.
Quotes attributable to VPTA Chairperson Margaret Guthrie
“We know how keen young people in public housing are to find work and realise their dreams.”
“This is a small program but it has a powerful message. Young people in public housing have the same aspirations and hopes as everyone else.”
“We believe in them and we hope that “Shout Out” can make a real difference in their lives.”