Recently, our community partner Reclink Gippsland held an arts session for our Ladder program participants in Morwell. In the session, the young people were guided by a staff member from Reclink to create their own sculpted pieces using air dried clay and playdough. This session provided an opportunity for our young people to get creative, express themselves through art form and engage with other participants in a fun and artistic activity. Our young people really enjoyed the activity and being able to make their own creations. 

Studies have shown that participating in creative activities provides positive emotions and wellbeing for children and young people. It also enables young people to explore their feelings and emotions, become more self-aware, develop, or learn new skills and reduce stress and anxiety. It can improve their self-confidence and a sense of wellbeing, increase their self-esteem and enables them to creatively think outside the box. These are all important elements for a young person to thrive and are fundamental to the Ladder Step Up program model.

The Ladder program has been working with Reclink Gippsland over the past 12 months to provide a range of sports and recreational activities for our young people to improve their physical health and increase their social wellbeing. This new offering which expands to dance, song/choir, visual art and craft workshops enables our young people to express themselves in art form which can lead to improved physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. It also provides an opportunity to connect with their peers and their local community by participating and socialising in a group activity together.

Working collaboratively with local community organisations enables us to provide the best outcomes for our young people. Thank you Reclink for hosting a wonderful arts session and your ongoing support over the past 12 months!