Community Partnerships Have Made a Big Impact on Lives

Hobart, Australia, May 05, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Having a disability can throw all sorts of challenges in the way of an individual enjoying the respect and personal fulfilment of taking their place in the workforce and achieving their potential.

This is where the partnership of the business sector, community groups, government and the individuals themselves can ensure those challenges are met and overcome.

Hobart businesses K&D Warehouse, Howards Storage, Tackle Us, Italian Pantry, The Lansdowne Cafe, Harris Scarfe and Carat Zoo deserve to be recognised and praised for working alongside Cosmos Inc and MEGT Institute to provide the practical work experience a team of 10 locals with disabilities needed in order to achieve their Certificate I or II in Retail qualification.

"The confidence the students build throughout the program is remarkable," explains Nicole Gayewski from MEGT Institute. "This collaboration of support services, training provider and businesses was a program funded by DHHS and Skills Tasmania. It was designed to allow young people with an intellectual/developmental disability the opportunity to undertake nationally accredited qualifications in a supported environment, and in a manner relevant to their learning needs."

Such was the success of the initial program that it has been extended to more people and even those who had previously graduated through the pilot have had the opportunity to complete a higher qualification. Plans are underway to develop and tailor a Certificate I Hospitality course in addition to the existing programs.

On 8th May 2012 there will be a double graduation ceremony – for the Certificate I graduates and for those who went on to achieve their Certificate II. The Hon Nick McKim MP, Minister for Education and Skills and The Hon Cassy O'Connor, Minister for Human Services will both be present to celebrate with the graduates, friends, family and supporters.

Given the program’s success, increasing interest and value of the Skills Potential Program it is hoped that it will continue to be supported and given every opportunity to grow and provide further education opportunities to students with intellectual/developmental disability.