Bethlehem House Employability Program celebrates first crop of graduates

The St Vincent De Paul Society (Vinnies) is proud to acknowledge the first group of 10 graduates from Bethlehem House’s Employability Program.

As current residents of Bethlehem House, a ‘Special Work’ of the Society, participants were engaged in training arranged by the Civil Contractors Federation of Tasmania (CCF).

The first round of the program included training focused on preparation for work in the civil contracting sector of the construction industry and included segments on working at heights, confined spaces and woodwork.

The rooftop garden of Bethlehem House is already benefitting from their work, with planter boxes being installed to help beautify the area which is offers a peaceful sanctuary in this city-based location.

The program is supported by the Tasmanian Priory of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller, Max Employment, Workforce Australia and CCF.

Vinnies Chief Executive Officer Heather Kent said she was amazed at how this program had inspired 10 men to take on an additional challenge as they make life changes, helping to break the cycle of trauma that leads to homelessness.

“The collaboration between Max Employment, The Civil Contractors Federation of Tasmania, our generous benefactor and other supports in the background have all contributed to making this a very worthwhile venture,” she said.

“We are so lucky to have such a great facility at Bethlehem House where we can host developmental programs such as these, including accessing our workshop to do some practical instruction and development.

“I’m excited about the prospect of employment for our men, both in terms of employer-employee scenarios and potential micro-business opportunities that could flourish in the coming months.

“This program would not be possible without generous support from the Knights and Dames of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem (OSJ).”

Tasmanian Prior to OSJ Edward Gauden OAM CJSJ said the organisation was incredibly proud to support one of Vinnies’ Special Works and would provide continued funding to see the program continue.

“Our Knights and Dames, who have all made a commitment to helping those in need, are delighted to see the first crew of graduates from the program,” he said.

“We are proud to see the success of the program to date and excited to continue our support with a further $5000 donation.

“Developing practical skills opens up employment opportunities and this, in turn, will help break the cycle of homelessness.”

The Order is a Christian, Chivalric Ecumenical and International community. Founded by Benedictine monk, Brother Gerard, in the 11th Century for pilgrims to Jerusalem. The history of the Order is more than 900 years of continuous service to the sick and poor.

Quotes attributed to MAX Employment regional manager Georgina Price
“It is an excellent outcome when you see such high levels of participation not only across the duration of a course but also the ongoing increase in engagement and progression towards employment,” she said.

“MAX has a priority focus on collaborating with community organisations and industry bodies to offer training and employment opportunities to those in our community that need it most.

“The post project support provided from our local MAX team includes a structured approach to transport solutions, utilisation of government initiatives and connection with employment opportunities.

“The program’s success has ensured future courses will be operated using the same collaboration and funding model and similar training opportunities will be available for more residents experiencing homelessness and/or unemployment.”

Quotes attributed to Workforce Australia Employment Facilitator Nick Probert
"Workforce Australia's Local Jobs Program is delighted to be supporting the men of Bethlehem House on their journey towards construction careers,” he said.

“This is a great example of the role of the Employment Facilitator here locally, to support a community organisation to provide place-based training into an industry that is experiencing significant labour shortages. Congratulations to all involved "

Quotes attributed to CCF Operations Manager Amber Forrest
“CCFTas is proud to initiate this project with Bethlehem House,” she said.
“Civil construction is all about building and enabling communities. We are in a housing crisis, matched by a skills shortage in construction across Tasmania.

“The men at Bethlehem House have been great and stepped up beside us to help themselves and the industry to solve these issues.

“Everyone has the right to contribute to better outcomes for themselves and their community. Those who are experiencing homelessness are no different.”