Villa Maria Catholic Homes has opened a second facility after an extensive fundraising campaign in response to the great success of the Cre8 Shed in Wangaratta.
Jamie Graham, 37, joined the original Cre8 Shed run by VMCH two years ago and found the outcomes ‘life changing’.
“I started the program with minimal knowledge and low confidence, but now I’m helping others to learn how to use tools,” Mr Graham said.
“I’m proud of my achievements so far and would like to mentor others in this type of employment, as well as come up with my own e-commerce projects in the future.”
A free open day at the Shepparton shed will be held on Friday, February 23 and include an inspection of Kialla House, a new independent-living living home.
Mr Graham recently gained paid employment at the shed, including creating items for VMCH’s online social enterprise shop which raises money for job skills programs.
Team leader John Salafia described Mr Graham as a valued member of the Cre8 team who had a ‘heart of gold’.
"It’s been fantastic to witness Jamie’s positive growth in confidence and self-worth,“ Mr Salafia said.
“He has become a bit of a role model to his peers.”
Mr Salafia said Cre8 was different from other disability programs because it offered a workplace environment.
"Everyone who joins has access to experienced support and a family-like culture,“ he said.
“We offer genuine pathways to employment and an opportunity to explore people’s creative sides.”
Kialla House is now ready to welcome new housemates who would like to experience living out of home for the first time in a safe environment.
The ‘Hello to Shepparton’ open day starts at VMCH’s Kialla House at 10am on Friday with transport to the Cre8 Shed available.
The day will include an opportunity for hands-on activities and a sausage sizzle.
For details, call Drew Burnett on 0429 542 257.
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