OPTUS GRANT HELPS QUEENSLAND'S YOUTH STAY ON THE RIGHT TRACK

Optus funding has enabled Youth Advocacy Centre Inc (YAC) to purchase interactive technology. The funding will extend the reach of YAC’s Youth Worker training program “Laying down the Law” in regional Queensland.

Supported with funding of $3,000 from this year’s Optus Community Grants program, YAC has purchased an interactive whiteboard. The whiteboard will enable YAC to deliver webinars and training on the law and legal systems to regional youth workers in areas such as Mt Isa, Rockhampton and Mackay, so that the workers can better support young locals who may find themselves in need of legal assistance.

Janet Wight, YAC’s director said, “Currently we are reliant on travelling to regional centres to deliver the training. We can only do this when we are successful in getting funds because of the cost involved. The Optus Community Grant has made it possible for us to purchase technology which provides an alternative and cost effective way to deliver this important training. This means that more regional youth can have access to up to date legal information and be supported by workers who understand legal processes.”

Helen Maisano, Associate Director Corporate Social Responsibility at Optus said, “We are delighted to have been able to use our Community Grants program to help the Youth Advocacy Centre purchase technology that will empower regional youth workers to provide up to date legal information and assistance to young people who may find themselves in need of legal help.

“Optus sees a real community benefit by investing in an organisation that helps young people understand their legal rights and responsibilities, helping them to avoid becoming involved in the criminal justice system and avoid antisocial behaviour. The technology purchased by YAC has the potential to help so many more young people all over Queensland.”

The annual Optus Community Grants program awards funding of up to $10,000 to not-for-profit organisations that provide a range of support services to its surrounding community. Over the past five years, Optus has donated almost $1.2 million to more than 200 community organisations across Australia.

For more information on the ‘yes’ Optus Community Grants program please visit https://www.optus.com.au/shop/aboutoptus/communitygrants

Contact Details:

Fuel Communications: 02 8217 6500/ Optus@fuelcommunications.com.au