Youth hub open in Alfredton

THE mezzanine floor in the Alfredton Sports and Community Club is having a make-over.

Computer screens, game consoles, soft furniture and a coffee machine have been carried up the stairs to create a hub for young adults.

“Thanks to funding from WDEA we have been able to create this space for the youth in our community,” Shane Manley, Alfredton Sports and Community Club chairman, said.

“We are hoping to use the coffee machine for barista training purposes to help with employment opportunities.”

WDEA Works is a not-for-profit community organisation that provides disability and mainstream employment assistance, recruitment and training services and disability services.

The organisation’s Foundation donated just under $10,000 to go towards the purchase of the equipment for use by Next Step Disability Services.

“The WDEA Works Foundation is dedicated to ensuring those with a disability are provided every opportunity to socialise and to further develop their skills,” Ryan Guareschi, Business Development Manager said.

Janine Hunter, Next Step Disability Services support worker, said it is a fantastic space is for the kids to chill out.

“As the Club is open every day as a multi-purpose building for the whole community the hub can be used regularly,” she said. “Once we get the youth club up and running it will make a big difference.”

Next Step Disability Services uses the downstairs area for art and craft classes as well as life and literary skills support.

A number of the people who attend are from aged or residential facilities.

“They see there time here as a day out and an opportunity to socialise with others,” Ms Hunter said.