Chisholm & Gamon Community Focus : Trisha Silvers of St Kilda Youth Service
At Chisholm & Gamon, we know that a community only thrives when every element within it has opportunity to follow their passion. By working with or supporting charity and community organisations, we all benefit. Today’s C&G Community Focus blog features Trisha Silvers, CEO of the St Kilda Youth Service (SKYS). SKYS help young people with complex needs, offering specialised education, housing and social service programs in addition to social enterprises including HEAT catering and Blue SKYS Media. Meet Trisha!
CG: Trisha, what is your role at SKYS, and how did you come to learn about the organisation?
I came into contact with SKYS in 2007 when the HEAT Program started. The HEAT (Hospitality and Employment Training) Program is a practical re-engagement program. I have observed SKYS from afar as a resident of City of Port Phillip and was fortunate enough to be appointed the CEO in November 2013.
CG: Does SKYS offer the opportunity of further education for their clients? Could you share a SKYS success story with us?
One of our outstanding students graduated with a senior VCAL in 2012 and promptly gained a traineeship with the Richmond Football Club. This student has also just been awarded over $9000 for a scholarship for further study. Other students have transitioned into higher level certificates, diplomas and degrees as well as apprenticeships and employment.
CG: What do you find most fulfilling about your work at SKYS?
Every day is fulfilling at SKYS, as we reach the most disadvantaged young people locally and beyond through our youth services and education program. We have meaningful relationships with our partners and funders who are all striving to ensure that all young people are treated with dignity and respect.
CG: How can businesses and the community become better acquainted with SKYS? Is there a function or fundraising event coming up that people might become involved in?
Yes – come along the join in the Homeless World’s Longest Lunch!
CG: SKYS parenting looks like an amazing education project. How does SKYS parenting change life for both parent and child?
SKYS Young Mums program offers young parents who have had their education interrupted by pregnancy and child rearing the chance to re-engage with their education in an environment that allows for their children to be present with them.
Our Young Mums program offers up to a full senior VCAL qualification for students and access to welfare support. Students have the opportunity to share and gain knowledge from one another in an extremely supportive environment where they seek advice and utilise each other’s skills. The unique opportunity to do all of this whilst having their children remain close rather than in a day-care centre allows for young children to socialise and provides a freedom for the mothers to study in a way they could not access elsewhere.
For more details on SKYS and supporting this service, click here.
