Building Confidence and Community Connections in Shepparton

We recently had a wonderful experience at Craft Alive in Shepparton, a vibrant community event that brought together local vendors and creative businesses. It was a fantastic opportunity for our participants to connect with the wider community and explore new interests.

During the event, one of our participants showed incredible initiative. He confidently approached stallholders, introduced himself, and spoke about the programs we offer at are-able. He shared how being part of our community has helped him build confidence and set clear goals for his future. This was a truly inspiring moment, as he stepped outside his comfort zone to advocate for himself and proudly represent the progress he has made.

This experience significantly boosted his confidence, communication skills, and sense of independence. By actively engaging with vendors in a real-world setting, he practised social interaction and self-advocacy, reinforcing his belief in his own abilities. He shared that “are-able has helped me set goals and actually work towards them instead of just thinking about them,” which perfectly captures the impact of these opportunities.

We are so proud to support people in building skills, confidence, and pathways to meaningful work. Experiences like this are vital in helping participants achieve their long-term goals, like his ambition to work in the mines, by preparing them for employment and increasing their community participation. Together, we create opportunity, fostering a sense of pride and achievement in every step forward.