A new service specifically designed to provide local men in Brighton Tasmania with a place to learn new skills and develop a support network was launched last December. The Jordan Community Workshed Project operates from the former fire station in Bridgewater, and is open to men of all ages.
It aims to provide participants with a range of new skills, such as woodworking, welding and car maintenance. This will help develop their employment prospects, as well as provide them with an opportunity to meet other local men in similar situations, and improve their self confidence.
The project was initiated by a group of local men involved with the Gagebrook Community Centre who are keen to pass on to others their practical skills in a range of areas.
They also wanted the Workshed to provide men, particularly the unemployed, single dads and retired men, with an avenue to meet others in the same situation in the area, and to give local young men a chance to learn useful skills.
“Letters were sent to a range of community organisations, detailing the project, and we have been fortunate enough to obtain $3,500 funding to date,” said Bill Griffiths, Chairman of the workshed steering committee.
“Council is involved on the committee, providing the land and trying to help the committee obtain grant money,” said General Manager of Brighton Council, Geoff Dodge.” It is a very good thing for a community such as ours as it provides structured activities. We are fortunate to have older people in the community willing to share their skills.”
For further information please contact Bill Griffiths, on (03) 6263 5594.