Program to dismantle barriers, re-engage young adults

Dismantle is a organisation with a big agenda for reconnecting young people to education, and helping them prepare to enter the workforce. Young adults in Western Australia who experience social and educational disadvantages have access to training and support programs that are proving effective in delivering practical support. Dismantle's Youth Vocational Re-Engagement Project is a way for young people to connect with learning and training for work, and reconnecting with education and courses. The outcomes benefit individual participants as well as their community.

The BikeRescue initiative is the flagship outreach and engagement project, mentoring young adults in developing social skills and building confidence through bicycle mechanic activities. Approximately 40 programs run each year, and at least 800 young people are testament to its success. Activities take place at schools and youth centres, with half held in a school setting to minimise obstacles to attending. A 10-week schedule aligns with the school term to reinforce ties to schools and their staff.

A Communities Taking Steps grant supported the BikeRescue program at Fremantle College in 2022, where ten people took part in 30 hours of bicycle refurbishment workshops with coaching from Occupational Therapists and Youth Workers. While the preference is for a cohort aged between 15-18 years (enabling some participants to transition to a JobReadii employment program), Fremantle College had identified challenges with a younger cohort. Ultimately, Distmantle want to provide support where it is needed, servicing the needs of the referral partner.

CCI Giving Foundation Manager, Lauren Clair, explains that participation in programs has increased despite the pandemic's impact.

“A CCI Giving Communities Taking Steps grant represents a meaningful investment in the future of young Australians. Dismantle leads by example, investing time and knowledge in helping those who have fallen behind or at risk of disengaging with education altogether. I’m confident their work to connect young people to training and work experience opportunities will strengthen.”

Dismantle CEO Pat Ryan  describes an innovative service model that encourages positive steps beyond the program.

We want to support growth through life-changing experiences where that is possible. Referral agencies help us to identify young people who can benefit from our programs and, importantly, they assist with participation costs through government subsidies.

Dismantle provides a link to ReNew Property Maintenance and BikeDr Cycle Services that facilitates paid work experience and further skills training. If you live or work in our community, it’s possible that one of our extraordinary individuals is fixing your bike or landscaping your garden.

Pat Ryan, Dismantle CEO

The next round of CCI Giving’s Communities Taking Steps small grants program opens 1 February 2023. Visit the program page to find out more, check eligibility and to get in touch.