WITH the aim of creating a safe, welcoming and warm space for young people, GOTAFE and Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project have officially launched OLLY (Opportunities and Life Links for Youth).
Located at GOTAFE’s Fryers Street campus in Shepparton, OLLY offers a welcoming and non-judgmental space for young people in the community. The program will provide access to food, positive social and learning experiences, and opportunities to refer those in need to relevant services as required.
OLLY replaces Lighthouse’s program, The Haven, which has supported over 11,000 positive engagements since its establishment in 2017. OLLY will continue to build on the success of The Haven, and the new partnership with GOTAFE will offer enhanced employability training opportunities and strengthen links to other community services.
Speaking at the launch, Nick Gray, executive director corporate services at GOTAFE, emphasized the significance of the joint commitment to supporting young people in the community.
“GOTAFE and the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project share the same focus on ensuring people have opportunities to discover their full potential. Together, we are putting resources and strategies in place to address some of the issues impacting young people and will improve the future for all generations to come,” Mr Gray said.
Amy Robinson, executive officer at Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, echoed Gray’s sentiments and emphasised that, “Young people own this space. Our consultation and co-design process with young people in various settings and with GOTAFE staff and students has shaped the physical space and the manner and content of engagement. We will continue to listen and adapt to ensure we meet the ongoing needs of our young people.”
For the latest updates follow the OLLY Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OllyShepparton.
