Fit for Work, PCYC NSW’s youth program, aims to support young people by creating employment pathways for them.
In collaboration with the NSW Police and industry leaders like TAFE, headspace and local employers, PCYC provides a 10-week intensive training course that equips participants aged 16 to 18 with essential employability and life skills, including career planning, resume building and certifications such as First Aid and White Card.
To date, PCYC has held Fit for Work in 10 clubs across New South Wales, with more than 120 participants and 850 attendances.
Mudgee participant, 17-year-old Jordan Smith, said Fit for Work has given him confidence and a White Card that he otherwise wouldn’t have been able to access.
“Fit for Work helped me map out what I want to do in life – the program had a lot of fun involved with it, with career workshops and activities,” said Jordan.
Jordan’s brother, Joshua Smith, started participating in PCYC’s Fit for Life program at just 10 years old – now, at 18, he’s employed by PCYC and running Fit for Work – recently engaged in the program as a career mentor.
“It’s so rewarding to see the transformation from when the participants first come into the program with no idea where they want to go, what they want to do, to then coming out of the program with a new sense of direction and a passion, and in many cases, secured employment,” said Joshua. “PCYC sparked my passion for helping others.”
During Fit for Work, PCYC provides participants with business casual clothing for job interviews. After 10 weeks of dedication, the young people get dressed up for a graduation event to celebrate their achievements.
“It was a very special moment, being on stage surrounded by friends and family, and accepting my certificate,” said Jordan. “This program has really helped us turn into mature young adults, preparing us with the real-life skills we need for what our future holds.”
Fit for Work provides participants with the opportunity to gain employment or enhance their employment capabilities, fostering a strong sense of achievement, pride and community contribution.
The program is also running in Bathurst, Lake Macquarie, Lake Illawarra, Bulli, Dubbo, Auburn, Parramatta, Liverpool and Mount Druitt.
Read also: New social enterprise plants career pathways for First Nations youth
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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