News & Events

Stepping Out Housing Program has had a fantastic start to the new year. A comprehensive living skills program called Unleash and the Stepping Out Workforce Development Program are in full swing. Both programs have been in the making for over two years with input from tenants, ex-tenants and staff.

Our consultant, Michelle Richmond is facilitating the Unleash the Spirit within- Building skills for a balanced life program. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the fields of behavioural sciences, health, training and coaching.

She has a team of amazing women who have been bringing in their expertise in various areas.

Fiona Pascoe is facilitating the Stepping Out Workforce Development Program and brings her experience in working in the corporate sector assisting women back into the workforce and finding opportunities for clients to be mentored by women already in the workforce.

Alongside her, a consultant Julane Bowen is bringing her wealth of knowledge and expertise in assisting the women to develop their interview skills, composing their CV’s and offering individual coaching sessions.

Justine Ruszczyk is a support person with Michelle in the Unleash the Spirit Within Program and has been a valuable asset in supporting the clients and creating special surprises for the women.

The program is dynamic and has made a positive impact on the women of Stepping Out. Comments from participants include:

“Do you know what’s different about this place compared to other mental health places; is you offer hope to us for our future.” – Gill

The program is unique because the staff meet the women where they are in their journey through life and assist them to move towards a life more congruent with who they really are.

Through sharing and educating women on creating their future, the women have had opportunities to identify their passions, gain access to mentors in the area of work they are interested in, understand what beliefs are holding them back, learning cutting edge tools to overcome fears, address their finances and understand abundance consciousness, look at health in a new way, getting involved in fitness routines, and building upon skills to improve relationships.

The Unleash Program is held on Thursdays from 10am-3pm during school terms. The first term has been very inspiring and a connecting experience for our women.

“Interaction with other clients is a big positive.” Kerry

“I told my friend what goes on here and she thinks that everyone should access this program.”- Kim

In the first term they were treated to amazing lunches from volunteers in the community to catering companies who support the program and the work of Stepping Out Housing Program.

The clients expressed their appreciation of how the program has a client focus and are impressed with how the program is run. Here is what they have to say:
 
“Thursday is the only day in the week I relax- Time to think about me.” Kerry

“It (program) changes your perspective on ways to deal with things.” Gill

“I’ve used lots of the tools and it has made things a lot easier. Gives me confidence to aim higher than staying on the same level.” Violet

The clients who participate in the program would like to express their appreciation and gratitude for all the effort, enthusiasm and energy brought into the program by all the facilitators, volunteers and staff who put the program together.

Thank you to all the clients who are participating in the program. We look forward to seeing you shine next term.

Pampering Day

As part of the return to work program four of the participants went to Cassidy’s of Harbord and received a free hair style, cut, colour and head and back massage while having their hair washed. The ladies left there with a spark and a jump in their step. Here’s what they had to say:

“Thank you immensely for the feeling of lightness, I haven’t felt like this.”- Dianne

“I haven’t been to a place like that it was amazing.” Gill

Following the hairdressers they had their photos taken for their portfolio or CV by Gino Nalini.

Participants were treated to lunch at The Kitchen Nook in Harbord. The restaurant staff were lovely and the meals were tasty. Thank you to all the volunteers who made this day special.

On behalf of the Staff at Stepping Out Housing Program, I would like to thank our Unleash Consultant and staff helping us bring to life a dynamic program that is truly transforming the lives of the women we serve.  Your contribution to our program both in work and in-kind are truly appreciated. Another special thanks to Sidney Meyer Foundation and State Street for providing the funding to run these programs.

Special Thanks

The following people have volunteered their time in assisting in different ways throughout the first term. We would like to acknowledge and express our gratitude for their support, time and effort in making this a wonderful experience for our clients.

• Cassidy’s of Harbord
• The Kitchen Nook
• Belinda Franks Catering
• Fresh Catering
• Tina Clark- askher.com.au
• Lisa Brown- Innervate Personal Training
• Gino Nalini Photography
• Ling Halbert Catering