Program gives teens direction

WAHROONGA Retirement Village had some special helpers this week - eight teenagers who relocated a vegetable garden for the residents.

The teens are taking part in a Government funded program Get Set For Work.

The program is aimed at 15 to 19 year olds who have left or are at risk of leaving high school before the completion of Year 12.

Program co-ordinator Bree Harris said projects like Wahroonga taught the students about community awareness.

"It helps create an interest in helping out in the community," Bree said. "The program is for kids who don't really know what to do next."

She said they learnt about themselves and others and to not be held back by self-imposed boundaries.

"We ask them to talk about their biggest dream and we look at how to make it real."

The gardening at Wahroonga was popular with the teens.

"It makes you feel happy to help out," Olivia Liebig said.

"It's like a handprint on a wall - you can come back when you're 30 and say 'I helped with that'."

Olivia, who was leaving school, wanted to be a librarian.

During our interview Bree received a call to say Olivia had been successful in securing a position as assistant program co-ordinator, working as Bree's assistant.

"This is exactly what this program is about," Bree said.

It is obvious watching the students at work the impact Bree has had on their lives.

For example Katie Brady, 18, has left school and is expecting her first child.

"I had no idea what I wanted to do," she said.

"But after being in this program I know what I want to do and I even got my driver's licence.

"Everything I accomplish I dedicate to Bree.

"She has helped me so much.

"I am just so proud and thankful I got into this program."

The program continues for a further five weeks, finishing with a group play.