VOLUNTEER groups in the Northern Grampians Shire are set to receive a major boost.
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A new program headed by the Youth Action Council will aim to break down the barriers in volunteering.
Dot 2 Dot aims to make it easy for young people to connect with a volunteering organisation that suits them and their interests.
The youth council successfully applied for the grant through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.
The $10,000 grant will allow the council to help young people connect with volunteer organisations and gain valuable skills and opportunities.
Northern Grampians Shire councillor Merrilee Reid said volunteering was important for young people, especially those who were disconnected as a result of isolation, disability or mental health issues.
“This year’s Heywire participants recognised that it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to volunteering,” she said.
“The group will act as mentors, getting to know disengaged young people and working with them to find a volunteer position they would really enjoy.
“For example, a young person who is interested in nature and enjoys being outdoors might be matched with Landcare.”
Cr Reid said participants in the program would learn crucial skills for employment, make friends, learn people skills, gain confidence and create networks that could build toward a career.
“It’s all about encouraging disconnected youth to join their communities and become part of something than themselves,” she said.