Sparkways (Formally TRY Australia)

Sparkways is a social purpose organisation, delivering access to early learning, mentoring and supported employment pathways for the vulnerable and those at risk of or experiencing disadvantage.

We are committed to working alongside people to support building capacity, resilience and independence. Sparkways prides itself on being a trusted and collaborative partner with a passion for discovering new ways of doing things, which are responsive to social need.

Learn more here: https://sparkways.org.au/

About our Mentoring Program

Our mentoring program aims to provide young people aged 7-20 with positive experiences at pivotal moments in their lives. It is designed to help young people flourish by connecting them with a positive role model, who they can trust to provide social support, friendship and encouragement.

Our Young People

We currently have 20 young people in the following suburbs awaiting a mentor:

• Altona, Altona Meadows & Altona North.
• Caroline Springs and Taylors Lakes.
• Hillside and Melton.
• St Albans, Sunshine & Deer Park.
• Point Cook.
• Truganina.
• Werribee & Point Cook.

The Volunteer Position

• Mentoring a young person from one of the suburbs listed above.
• Fortnightly face to face catch ups, for a minimum of 2 hours, with a young person for the program period of 12 months.
• Being a stable role model for a young person so they are a given the crucial support and encouragement they need to develop their own sense of independence, resilience, and self-confidence.
• Working towards achieving goals set by the young person.

Personal Attributes

Our mentors come from all walks of life and we welcome anyone willing to make a difference in their community. While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a volunteer mentor, we do look for some specific qualities:

• A high level of passion and commitment for working with young people.
• Patience and a willingness to listen.
• Understanding, supportive, friendly and respectful.
• Able to commit for the program period of 12 months.
• Willingness to mentor a young person from one of the suburbs listed above.

Mentor Screening Process

Every mentor is carefully screened to ensure they can provide a safe and respectful environment for our young people. Our screening process is compulsory for all mentors and includes the follow steps:

• Interview with 2 Program Coordinators.
• Completion of a Police Check and Working with Children Check.
• 2 References.
• Attending an all day training session on a Saturday.

We Can Offer You

• Regular contact, training and support provided by qualified Program Coordinators
• Support and coaching to navigate each stage of the mentoring relationship.
• Connection to other mentors so you feel part of a community.
• Activity days bringing all the mentors and mentees together for connection and fun.

Child Safety and Inclusiveness

Sparkways is committed to child safety. The protection and wellbeing of children and young persons is reflected in our zero tolerance for child abuse. All staff and volunteers have a moral and legal responsibility to ensure that young people are safe whilst involved in our care and programs. All children have the right to safety and security and the protection from physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse and neglect.

Sparkways is a child safe and equal employment opportunity employer. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, from people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and Gender diverse people.

A position description is attached.