This volunteer mentor role has been created, to enrich the lives of young people living in residential care. This position reports to the Case Worker responsible for the young person.

Possible tasks

Volunteer responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

• taking the young person fishing
• assisting young people in setting up their fishing equipment
• patiently explaining and instructing young people how to fish and how to gut and clean a fish
• Creating a safe environment for the young person
• Listening to and chatting with the
• young person while fishing

Key selection criteria

The Fishing Volunteer will need:

• the ability to build positive relationships with young people;
• have a non-judgmental approach;
• have an affinity for fishing and be comfortable spending time outdoors;
• a commitment to supporting young people in difficult circumstances;
• demonstrate patience, empathy and listening skills;
• adopt a flexible approach; and
• teamworking skills

Our main goals

• fostering self-worth in the young people through engagement in an activity where they can succeed
• Teaching skills
• promoting teamwork and peer relationships
• offering a safe space for vulnerable young people to learn and enjoy some leisure time
• creating meaningful relationships
• encouraging respect for wildlife and responsible fishing practises

About the program

In Geelong and the Bellarine we work with children, young people and families to address unstable home environments and empower them to create safe, nurturing homes where all family members are empowered to reach their full potential. Children and young people who are temporarily unable to live at home are supported through our out of home care services. Our approach is therapeutic, culturally safe and family centred.

Through offering young people activities they enjoy, we hope to foster

• increased social inclusion
• enhanced peer relationships
• development of skills
• increased self-esteem and self-confidence; and
• increased capacity to engage in
• relevant activities
• Increased independence