AN innovative program which aims to re-engage young people and help them develop mechanical-based skills, such as basic car maintenance, is being run locally by the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project.
The Pit Stop program aims to increase work and life skills, improve mental health and increase connection for young people within the community whilst better connecting them to opportunities through the bridging of social capital. This community initiative also works with at-risk young people as an early intervention model to re-engage them at school.
The program is run three times a week, each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, by dedicated mentors, including Chris Windsor who previously owned his own mechanic business.
Students also work on pushbikes and once complete, donate them back for community initiatives such as ‘ride to school’.
Feedback has been incredibly strong. There is nothing like Pit Stop operating locally that enables students with lower literacy skills to develop hands-on life skills and connect with industry mentors. They are aiming to build aspiration for careers within the transport, logistics and auto mechanical fields amongst participants.
The program had 48 students engaged for term two and this term 58 students are enrolled, with a wait list of new referrals.
Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project would like to thank DECA, a division of Wodonga TAFE and incredible sponsors Bursons Auto Parts, My Ride, Leigh Egan Cycles and the dedicated volunteers and mentors that make the program possible.
Donations of bikes, engines, volunteer time and anything else that would help keep this program running are greatly appreciated. ‘Pay it forward’ boxes are located in-store at My Ride and Leigh Egan Cycles so members of the community can purchase a new seat, tube or handle grips to donate to the groups working on bikes.
To book a time, learn more, donate or get involved contact Amy Robinson on arobinson@gslp.com.au or call 5821 9962.
