When Cass reached out to Parent Pathways for support, she never dreamed she’d soon be part of the team.
Parent Pathways is a free program that supports parents with young children (aged under six years) to achieve their education and career goals, while keeping their family front and centre.
“I was a stay-at-home Mum and had been fostering children for five years,” says Cass.
“My mentor helped me to get ready to go back to work.”
In an unexpected turn of events, a position came up with Parent Pathways and Cass was the successful candidate.
Now the young mum – who has fostered and offered respite to over 15 children – is helping other young parents.
“I work alongside people to help them work out their goals and provide guidance, support and advocacy,” she explains.
Parent Pathways Mentors help participants to set education and employment goals and can provide financial support to help with associated costs such as training, textbooks, transport, or the purchase of a computer to support study goals.
They can also help with tasks such as creating a resume, finding employment and developing skills to support balancing work and family life.
Maryann is one young mum benefiting from Cass’s guidance and support.
“As a single mum I was struggling. I was going through a tough time,” she says.
“Parent Pathways has helped me with some food vouchers and helped towards getting new tyres for my car. I wouldn’t have been able to afford them on my own.
“It’s been a massive help. I’m so grateful.
“They’ve helped me with a Working with Children Check and to get ready to apply for jobs.
“I would like to go back to working in disability or aged care. I think I will be able to get shifts that work around raising my daughter.”
Perhaps the biggest strength of the program is its personalised approach. Because “success” looks different for everyone – Parent Pathways is uniquely positioned to help participants design their own unique pathway to a successful future.
UnitingSA provides Parent Pathways at a range of locations in Adelaide’s northern suburbs as well as in the Mid North, Murray and South East regions. For more information visit our Parent Pathways page.