Those are the hard-working volunteers and staff of the Tomorrow Today Foundation.
Tomorrow Today has been finding new ways to support Benalla’s children, families and young people during the COVID-19 crisis.
Stage three restrictions have meant that many programs and activities cannot be delivered face-to-face in kindergartens, schools and community settings.
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Executive officer Rosie Koop said because of this, Tomorrow Today staff and volunteers had been embracing new ways to stay connected.
“We remain focused on improving educational outcomes in Benalla, but we’ve taken a side step and a different route to get there,” Ms Koop said.
“Many families who usually attend weekly group sessions of Parent Early Education partnership (PEEP) now meet for ‘walk and talk’ sessions, with face masks, around Benalla.
“The level of support we’re able to offer through one-on-one conversations is exceptional.
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“Some families just need someone outside their household to talk to.
“Others need advice and referrals to local services.”
PEEP staff are also running live song times on Zoom, distributing activity packs, and have developed scavenger hunts around Benalla, involving literacy and numeracy activities that keep children switched on to learning.
“The Connect9 mentoring program was able to meet in person at the beginning of the school term, for activities including a visit to Benalla Art Gallery,” Ms Koop said.
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“Since the reintroduction of restrictions, online content has been developed and mentee-mentor activity packs have been provided, to immerse students in careers development and trying new things.
“Likewise, the Great Start to Work program, usually delivered in a group setting, has become a ‘walk and talk’ with Tomorrow Today’s Future Work staff.
“Job skills training for young people is delivered via one-on-one sessions with local employers and professionals.
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“Far from feeling defeated by COVID, we are doing our work in different ways, and we’re full of energy and purpose.
“Thank you to everyone who supports the work we do in so many ways.
“When someone offers to help or when a new donation comes in, we’re reminded what a great and generous town this is.”
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