Gippsland
Gippsland
Gippsland Community Connections
Whitelion Community Connections is a key component of the Better Futures approach, which was rolled out by the Department of Families, Fairness & Housing on 1 November 2019. This new approach is focused on improving outcomes for young people transitioning from care to supported independence. Whitelion has been contracted by the Department to deliver the Community Connections service offer featured in the Better Futures model with the aim to build networks of supportive relationships for young people in their local community. Whitelion is providing a hybrid model which encompasses the following key services:
- Community engagement and capacity building
- Harness community effort through a place-based partnership approach
- Mentoring
Program eligibility
Referrals will be accepted for young people between the ages of 15-18 years currently on a Family Reunification, Care by Secretary or Long Term Care Order or 18-21 years having been on either of the above three orders between the ages of 16 to 18.
Contact
fwilliamson@berrystreet.org.au
Program supporters
The Gippsland Community Connections is an initiative of the Department of Families, Fairness & Housing. Berry Street delivers this program locally on behalf of Whitelion Youth.
Get involved
Whitelion is looking for volunteer mentors in Gippsland. If you are interested in becoming a mentor please contact fwilliamson@berrystreet.org.au
Gippsland Community Integration Program
The aim of the Community Integration Program (CIP) is to train volunteers to link every child and young person in Out of Home Care (OoHC) into local sports clubs, dance classes, art clubs and more. These links create connections between the young people and their community to reduce isolation and disconnection by increasing social skills and confidence.
Program eligibility
Young people aged 10-17 residing in OoHC in Gippsland.