We celebrated our first program graduation for 2024, with the Step Up Latrobe Valley program. All graduates automatically join the Ladder Alumni Program, which keeps them connected with Ladder peers, positive adult role models, mentoring and growth opportunities over the longer term.

We are so proud of their achievements throughout the program and all our young people have continued to kick goals after graduating.

Tanisha joined the Ladder program with the goal of returning back to school, to get a “second chance”. In addition, a personal goal of hers was to gain social skills and build on her self-confidence. Within her first week of the program, she stepped out of her comfort zone and was able to gain valuable skills by participating in group discussions.

“I really like the way that the Development Coaches communicate and work with the group. We work together to solve problems as a group and then they also help you, one on one.” said Tanisha.

Tanisha successfully graduated from the Ladder program and has also decided to go back to school, a complete 180 from how she was feeling before commencing the program. “I’m going to go back to school and be my best.” said Tanisha.

Along with their Ladder Development Coaches, our young people were also supported throughout the program by the Latrobe Valley community including Morwell Neighbourhood House and the Latrobe Valley Authority as well as their parents. All were in attendance at their graduation ceremony, cheering them on. 

One parent could see the significant difference in her son from his first day in the program, to seeing him receive his certificate at graduation. 

“When he’s come home from the program, he’s happy, more animated and very social. That makes me happy and I know he’s doing the right thing. I can see that his attendance in the program has also supported him to follow through with his TAFE course.” she said.

The next Step Up Latrobe Valley program will commence after the school holidays, on Monday 15^th April 2024. To learn more about the program and to make a referral or enquiry, click here.