Ladder is committed to creating genuine partnerships with local communities and like-minded organisations. This is vital to the success of the Ladder program, ensuring participants are connected in their community and referred to the appropriate supports and services.

Dominick was referred into the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley program through his Workways Employment Coach, Indi. His goal was to secure employment but having experienced several challenges in past work environments only further contributed to his lack of confidence and self-doubt.

“He was facing personal challenges and longing for a job but struggled to find motivation and see the path forward. I introduced him to Ladder, hoping it would provide the inspiration and structure he needed. It took some encouragement and effort, but eventually, he agreed to meet with them. After that meeting, something changed. He enrolled into the Ladder program and from then on, he was unstoppable.” said Indi, Youth Employment Coach – Transition to Work.

Ladder provided a safe space to support Dominick’s personal growth and help him build the confidence he was lacking. He began to participate more openly in group discussions, developed stronger communication skills, and became more comfortable interacting with others, both within and outside of the program. Dominick actively looked for work, feeling motivated and self-assured in his pursuit. He took the initiative to seek out financial support from Centrelink while continuing his job search.

Dominick’s confidence, which was once a major barrier, had become one of his greatest assets. He realised that he was capable of organising and managing his life and had developed the skills necessary to succeed in both his personal and professional endeavours.

Dominick also maintained strong relationships with his fellow program participants. Just a week after graduating from the Ladder program, he organised a mini-golf outing with his peers, demonstrating his ability to connect and plan activities with others in a relaxed, social setting.

In her follow up meetings with Dominick following the completion of the Ladder program, Indi noticed a significant change in him. “Through his journey in the Ladder program, I witnessed remarkable growth. He no longer felt alone; he had a network of support from Ladder and from me. It was clear that he was ready to achieve great things with the support he now had in place.” she said.

"I went to the Ladder program not knowing what they did, but I left feeling really happy and in a good space. I am more confident now and able to get things organised for my own life. I learned to be a lot calmer and try and look at the big picture. I’m not a little kid anymore and needed to grow up, Ladder helped me do that." said Dominick.