STEPS Pathways College began as a dream, the aspiration of a group of parents who saw a need.
Having children with a disability and facing the lack of opportunities for independent living, they embarked on a revolutionary plan to deliver a program that emulated real-life, teaching students independent living skills by immersing them into the experiences of day-to-day living. These are skills many of us take for granted, but they are fundamental building blocks for an independent, meaningful life.
STEPS Pathways College opened in 2017, the first of its kind in Australia. Its mission: to create brighter futures for young people living with a disability; to provide the experience required to learn to live independently and to choose a life they want to live.
Proudly, the College has been able to ‘fly’ because of the generosity of local businesses and individuals. You can make your EOFY donation here.
Earlier this year, our first five graduates donned mortar boards and courage and took the formal step of graduating College (and their home of the last two years) – ready to dive into independent futures.
Since then, Ari and Morgan have gained employment at Caloundra RSL. Ari has plans to move in with one of her College friends in Caloundra, rather than return to her hometown of Maryborough.
“I bought Ariana a little cottage here for when she came back, but she doesn’t want to come back to Maryborough. She now thinks that her life is in Caloundra, which is just fantastic,” Ariana’s mum Anne said.
Another one of our graduates, Tom has taken the courageous step towards the fulfilment of a long-held dream – he has moved to Melbourne to live in his own unit.
Moving almost 2,000 kilometres to live independently in big-city Melbourne would have been almost unthinkable a few years ago, but Tom has learned to handle challenges with a problem-solving mindset and has worked determinedly towards his dream. He also learned to cook, clean, wash, budget and shop – all the skills needed to live independently.
During his time at the College, Tom completed work experience with a Sunshine Coast sign-writing business. He was a huge hit with the staff and excelled at customer service. This experience will help Tom reach his next goal – to find a job in Melbourne. He has a passion for computers and all things IT and hopes to find employment in this sector.
Enrolling at STEPS Pathways College can be challenging for students; it means embracing loads of new experiences, including learning to live away from home – usually for the first time. It also represents an opportunity to grow, to spread their wings, and take on a whole new world.
Sending young people to STEPS Pathways College can also be a big step for parents. Knowing that students receive plenty of personalised support and a program designed to help them succeed is reassuring.
At this time of year we would like to ask you, our loyal supporters, to consider making a tax deductible donation to STEPS Pathways College. Your donation will ensure many more students can be equipped for a future that is bright and engaged. That’s a great legacy.
Any amount you can give matters enormously. Donate Here.
