Iconic Canberra charities partner to give vulnerable youth a chance to kickstart their careers.
Posted on
Coming together to support vulnerable youth, iconic Canberra charities Pegasus Riding for the Disabled and Communities at Work Galilee School have announced a unique partnership.
Creating more opportunities for vulnerable youth to gain real-life experiences, the like-minded community organisations have created the newly formed Farm Skills Program, funded by a Hands Across Canberra grant. And while it might sound like an odd combination, for students it’s a brilliant opportunity to get into the saddle (sorry) to try and kickstart their careers.
Giving Galilee School students the chance to gain employable skills in fencing, plumbing, irrigation, and farm management, at the same time they’re providing Pegasus with much-needed volunteer resources to keep the magic flowing at one of Canberra’s oldest charities—and the only one to offer Hippotherapy, which translates literally to ‘treatment with the horse’.
Helping to run the organisation’s 100-acre property in Holt, Galilee School principal Tim McNevin says it’s a wide-ranging authentic learning experience designed to inspire young people, help them to realise their full potential and arm them with the self-belief and skills to transition to the workforce successfully.
“Pegasus is an iconic Canberra charity and, like us, it aims to empower people to develop their abilities,” he explains. “It was a perfect fit. So, through a connection of networks, our partnership was formed, and the Farm Skills Program was developed.”
“We also believe that giving young people the opportunity to volunteer in their community and support others broadens their world view and builds confidence and character,” he adds.
Receiving $9,400 to purchase new workshop tools, a lawn mower, a weed trimmer and a trailer for the Farm Skills Program, the students have access to all the equipment to complete work around the property—and so far they absolutely love it.
Pegasus CEO Matthew Watson says his organisation immediately saw the potential of this partnering with Communities at Work to make a significant social impact in the community. Relying heavily on volunteers, the collaboration with Galilee School offers a new direction for the organisation that he believes has real potential to make a difference to the individuals involved
“Pegasus relies heavily on volunteers and work programs,” he says. “Our collaboration with Galilee School is a new direction for our organisation, and one that our management and the Board feel has real potential to make a difference to the individuals involved.”
“It’s a win-win all around: for Pegasus, the school, and most importantly, the students.”
Feature image: Margo Wade.
