22 August 2025

PCYC program helps steer struggling youth on journey to find work

| By Jen White
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Man talking to crowd.

PCYC NSW CEO Ben Hobby addresses a Fit for Work program. Photo: Supplied.

A vocational training program for young people struggling with school has made a life-changing difference for 22 Illawarra participants.

PCYC NSW’s Fit for Work program, funded through the Greater Charitable Foundation, helps young people build confidence, gain practical skills and take the next step in their employment journey.

The program runs twice a year at Lake Illawarra/Bulli PCYC, as well as in the Hunter region, to support people aged 15 to 17 who are disengaged from school or work.

All 22 Illawarra participants who completed the program have gone on to take part in work experience programs.

PCYC NSW CEO Ben Hobby said the program provided a valuable bridge between disengagement and opportunity.

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“Our partnership with the Greater Charitable Foundation has made a significant life-changing difference, through a shared commitment to empowering young people across NSW,” Mr Hobby said.

“Over the past two years, we have successfully delivered four impactful programs across Lake Macquarie and the Illawarra region, resulting in 49 program graduates which is huge progress towards a pathway for long-term self-reliance through employment or further education.

“These outcomes are a testament to the strength of strategic collaboration and the transformative potential of targeted support.”

Each 10-week program includes vocational training, mentoring and life skills development delivered by a NSW Police youth engagement officer, youth worker and trainer.

Participants also receive follow-up support after the program ends to help them stay focused on their employment goals.

Young people in the latest Illawarra program heard from members of the Illawarra Hawks, who delivered their Mental Fitness Program as part of the experience.

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Assistant coach Matt Flinn and players Todd Blanchfield and Kobe McDowell-White shared insights on resilience and wellbeing, offering motivation and encouragement.

Greater Charitable Foundation spokesperson Kirrah McClelland said the program helped to build strong foundations for young people in the Illawarra.

“You can see the difference in the way young people carry themselves by the end of the program,” Ms McClelland said.

“Fit For Work gives them the support to take that next step.”

A recent graduate said the experience, including sessions on mock interviews, career planning, digital technology use and certifications such as first aid and white card, gave them the confidence to take the next step in their journey.

Visit PCYC NSW for more information on the Fit for Work program.

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