We are thrilled to share the success of our recent volunteering day – the second year in a row – with the Foyer Foundation and Gold Coast Youth Service. This annual initiative is one our entire team looks forward to and is a connection to our dedication s a company to creating tangible career pathways for those hungry for knowledge and fulfillment.
Operating on a unique two-year program, the Foyer Foundation provides a vital service, enabling at-risk and homeless youth to develop educational and employment pathways. Our collaboration amplifies the impact, emphasising our shared belief that everyone deserves the chance to unleash their inner greatness. Together, we aim to empower individuals on their journeys to personal and professional growth, creating opportunities that transcend the challenges faced by these young individuals.
During this year’s volunteering day, our team assumed the role of career coaches. The focus extended beyond conventional career advice, encompassing CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation, LinkedIn guidance, and even professional headshots for their corporate online profiles.
The goal was clear – to empower these young individuals with the tools and knowledge needed for the successful navigation of their professional journeys, and to work with them to ensure they present themselves, unleashing their inner greatness and helping them put their best foot forward during their job search process.
“Participants received individualised career support to apply for their dream job. This type of specialised support is not elsewhere available to young people in traditional systematic care. They are supported to get a ‘no-skill’ or ‘for now’ job and once that is accomplished, the support ends there. This form of community involvement from Peopleconnexion breaks schemas that a lot of young people in care tend to carry, that people only care about them when they are paid to do so. The Foyer is grateful for the time, kindness, and ongoing support from the Peopleconnexion team” – Cameron Mckay, The Foyer representative and team leader.
At the heart of our volunteering day were the intensive 2-hour 1:1 sessions conducted by our dedicated Gold Coast and Brisbane consultants. Paired with a young participant, these sessions were not mere exchanges of information; they were opportunities to connect and inspire. Whether the young individuals left with an improved CV or the skills to make a positive impact in their next interview, our team left with hearts full of gratitude.
This is what a few of the participants on the day had to say:
“It was really good to sit down 1:1 with someone trained in helping people find employment. It has definitely boosted my confidence in cold calling companies” – Beau.
“I am grateful for the support I received during the career day. The guidance on resume and cover letter crafting, interview tips and the resources provided greatly contributed to my professional development” – Lex.
“We conversed on techniques that can occur in different types of interviews, and addressed how I can overcome my fidgetiness and nervousness. My mentor was patient with me, answered my questions and responded to my nervous energy. She was kind and helpful and her constructive criticism was good for me. I had thought my resume would be acceptable as I had had it reviewed by others but to have a recruiter who specialises in the field edit my resume, this definitely helped” – Dani.
“I think every Foyer should be inspired to run these days annually. The event was very professional and helped spark hope and change from what I thought was not possible for myself” – Tarik.
“I had a great experience. My mentor was of great help in getting me started in my career. I learned a lot about professionalism and enjoyed learning what it is like to meet amazing people who actually want you to see you succeed” – Korrinne.
We are humbled by the opportunity to offer this service and the kind words received by the participants. Our day was left recognising the profound impact it has on both the individuals we mentor, but also on our own team. The ability to sit down with these young people, to share insights, and to potentially witness their growth following our session fills our hearts with a deep sense of gratitude. For us, it’s much more than just a volunteering day; it’s a shared journey of empowerment and transformation.
Since our Foyer Day, we received news that one of the participants who had prepared a job application and received interview preparation with one of our consultants on the day was successful in their application and was accepted for their position. This young person is now greatly looking forward to a new chapter in their life, embarking on their dream career.
We express our heartfelt appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with the Foyer Foundation and recognition for everything they do for at-risk young people. Here’s to another year of humility, gratitude, and making a difference in the lives of those who aspire to achieve greatness.
