FIRST JOB PREPARATION
T here’s no shortage of green thumbs at the Picket Fence Community Garden! The Picket Fence at St Mary’s is a joint partnership between AnglicareSA and the St Mary’s Anglican Church. Open Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, the centre offers a range of programs and services such as a project centre for wood and metal work, sewing classes, cooking groups, lunch for a gold coin donation, art groups, emergency assistance and financial counselling. The Community Garden is run by Robin Collett, Community Gardener and St Mary’s Parish member, and about 12 enthusiastic volunteers. Robin has been working at the Picket Fence for about six years and says there are a number of reasons for volunteers to get involved in the Community Garden. “It gives people something to do and somewhere to socialise,” Robin said. “I’ve seen a number of volunteers come with depression and anxiety, and within a few weeks of working in the garden it seems to ease.” FRIENDSHIPS BLOOM ATCOMMUNITY GARDEN One of these students, Caleb (pictured above), was part of the FLO program with AnglicareSA from May 2015 and in that time has completed his Certificate II in Information and Digital Technology, Certificate III in Information Technology, Stage 1 English credits and his Stage 2 Research Project. He has completed his SACE and applied to study IT at Regency Park TAFE. Well done, Caleb! AnglicareSA’s Flexible Learning Options (FLO) program supports young people who are disengaged and struggling to attend mainstream school. These young people are provided a case manager with whom they work collaboratively to explore alternative learning opportunities. At the end of 2016, three students from Paralowie R-12 were successful in completing their SACE.
B eing interviewed for your first job is a daunting experience and useful tips and advice can be helpful. Late last year, a group of young refugees participated in mock job interviews to help prepare them for future employment. The event was coordinated by AnglicareSA staff and volunteers from Trinity City Church through City Light Ministry. Participants were given information about what to expect and how to prepare for an interview and underwent 1:1 mock interviews and feedback sessions. The feedback from the event was very positive. We are thrilled to hear that one of the young people who participated has gained part-time employment.
Photo: Pictured are participants and volunteers who took part in the mock interviews.
Volunteers participate in a range of activities, such as planting, propagating, composting, weeding, pruning, and the manufacturing of garden boxes. “I enjoy coming here for the bond and the friendship,” said Harry, who has been volunteering in the garden for over four years. “It’s also a chance for me to put something back into the community.” The Community Garden holds a Garden Market Day on the second Thursday of each month, at which members of the public can come along and buy fresh produce, plants and seedlings, and place orders for handmade garden boxes. To find out more call 8374 2522.
Photo:Pictured above are Harry and Robin at The Picket Fence.
The Supporter Autumn 2017 — page 7
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