Ladder recently hosted an end of year celebration in Melbourne to thank its stakeholders and partners for their support this year and for enabling the organisation to work with hundreds of young people.

“This year, Ladder has worked with and supported 320 young people. Of the 127 who graduated from our programs this year, 80% are now in education, training or employment as a direct result of our support. 193 of the remaining young people we supported were returning Alumni, who form part of our much broader alumni group.” said Ms Giselle Pinto, Acting CEO Ladder.

A short video was played that highlighted the organisation’s achievements. This included the continued funding of flagship programs in Victoria and New South Wales, expanding its reach with two pilot programs in Inner Gippsland and southern NSW, and extending support to parents and carers through the Surviving Adolescence program.

“Congratulations to all the young people for what you achieved this year, and to the Ladder team for a successful year!” said Ladder Board member and AFL Players’ Association (AFLPA) GM Human Resources, Ms Regan Bunny.

Ladder Alumni Micah and Shayla, together with Ladder Development Coach Ryan, shared with the guests their experiences of how Ladder got them back onto a better footing. All the Ladder young people in attendance came from different walks of life. The one thing they shared was the impact of the Ladder program in shaping who they are today.

“Without Ladder I would still be locked away in my room, unsure of how to help myself and what to do. Now I am more confident, I am applying for jobs, and I am a lot more positive and hopeful for my future.” said Ladder Alumni Micah.

Ladder CEO Stephanie De Campo, who recently returned from parental leave, officially closed the event.

“I’m so excited to be back at Ladder and want to say a big thank you to Giselle for her leadership of Ladder over the past 15 months. As we reflect on the year that was, I’m looking forward to building on the successes and looking ahead as we move towards our 20 year anniversary in 2027” Ms De Campo said.

“As the official charity of the AFLPA and through the support of the AFL, we are grateful for the meaningful opportunities the AFL community provided for our young people this year, as well as their support in helping us raise vital funds and awareness during the 2024 Toyota AFL Finals Series.”

“We would like to thank all our board members, partners and supporters for their unwavering commitment to Ladder. We are able to continue the work that we do to help young people shape their life trajectories.”

“We would also like to thank the Perpetual Group for hosting our event at their offices.”