Jorja Cultivates Confidence and Community Through Volunteering in Colac

When Jorja was completing Year 12 at Trinity College, she joined our School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program. She was looking for practical support in her daily life, exploring future work options, and hoping to build a social network. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we were pleased to walk alongside Jorja as she began her journey with us.

Volunteer work emerged as a wonderful pathway for Jorja, offering a flexible and supportive environment. She began assisting at The Salvos’ market garden in Colac, where the other volunteers warmly encouraged her to participate and take ownership of her tasks. This involvement soon grew, leading Jorja to also help with preparing for Market Day, a significant weekly event. This experience highlights how local support can create real impact, fostering growth in familiar community settings.

This meaningful engagement has had a profound impact on Jorja’s life. She has significantly improved her confidence, made new friends, and found a fulfilling way to give back to her community. Jorja shared, “I have built confidence and self esteem and enjoy going to the Salvo’s to participate in the Market Garden and also assisting with picking and packing for Market Day/Food Bank.” We are proud to support people like Jorja to build skills, confidence, and pathways to meaningful engagement.

At are-able, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for people to connect, grow, and contribute. Jorja’s story is a wonderful example of how, together, we can help individuals discover their strengths and build a vibrant, connected life within their community.