Four projects in Yarra received Pathways to Employment grants for 2010-2011.

Leg up Pilot Program @ Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association (Richmond)

The Leg Up Pilot Program is an intensive employment support program for Vietnamese people who have been in contact with the justice system. Up to 15 Vietnamese Australians aged 18 – 35 years, will be trained in the essentials of the job application process so that they can be more competitive in the recruitment process. At the same time, project participants will explore workplace practices, procedures and protocols to ensure they are prepared for the realities of the work environment. Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association

African Families Job and Training IT program @ Carlton Community Support Agency (Carlton)

This project will create a new African Families Jobs and Training IT facility to support up to 50 people of African origin to become IT-savvy. Project participants will be trained in online job searching, how to access emails and employer expectations around email and internet usage. Project participants will also be trained in how to find information from various government departments online (Australian Tax Office, Centrelink, etc) and Australian regulations around ABNs, company registration and financial management. It is an extension of the existing Carlton Employment Opportunities (CEO) program and ensures that residents of the Carlton & Nth Carlton Housing Estates receive ongoing vocational support. Carlton Community Support Agency

Rotary NEXT STEP Program @ Rotary Club of Richmond & Big Brothers Big Sisters(Richmond, Collingwood, Fitzroy)

The Next Step project was piloted in 2009 to provide a "one-stop" shop for young people who are starting out on their journey to work. With follow-up funding this year, momentum can continue and the partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters can be further supported. 20 young people who live in public housing in Yarra will be assisted to (i) identify their employment profile using Chandler MacLeod’s employment software, (ii) be trained in how to get a job (iii) have the chance to be matched to a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters and (iv) be assisted to undertake a work experience placement through Rotary’s extensive business contacts. Rotary Club of Richmond

Second Chance Cycles – Bicycle Mechanics Training and Work Skills Program @ Victorian Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders - VACRO (Collingwood)

The Second Chance Cycles Workshop in Collingwood opened its doors in mid 2009 to provide bicycle mechanics training to ex-offenders and disadvantaged local residents. The funding will see the program extended to include a job-readiness program focused on employer expectations around timeliness, customer orientation, communication and reliability. 12 people who have had trouble with the law will undergo accredited bike mechanics training and a structured work placement at Second Chance Cycles and local bike shops to boost their employment options and assist in their recovery. Thank you Portland House Foundation for supporting this project.VACRO

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