TARGET 1000 | 1000 Traineeships by 2028 | $500,000 for Support Programs

Making A Difference

At The Ready Foundation, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable young people across Australia. Through our innovative programs and unwavering commitment, we address the challenges they face. Here’s how we make a difference:

  • Personalised Mentorship: Personal guidance from caring mentors.

  • Financial Assistance: Scholarship support for educational opportunities.

  • Skill Development: Workshops and training to prepare for employment.

  • Create Safe Spaces: Environments where youth feel valued and heard.

  • Emotional Support: Counselling and mental health support.

Why They Need Help

Vulnerable youth often face numerous challenges that require additional support and resources to overcome. Through our innovative programs and unwavering commitment, we provide unique opportunities that enable vulnerable youth to thrive in education and employment. Here's why our Trainees need this extra care and attention:

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Economic Hardships

Many of our trainees come from low-income families where financial instability is a constant concern. This can limit their access to basic necessities like proper nutrition, clothing, and school supplies, making it difficult for them to focus
on education and personal development.

Limited Access to Education

Disengaged youth often lack access to quality education and training opportunities. This can be due to various factors, including living in underserved areas, attending
under-resourced schools, or experiencing disruptions in their education due to family issues or frequent relocations.

Lack of Mentorship and Role Models

Many vulnerable young people do not have access to positive role models or mentors who can guide them through their personal and professional development. Mentorship is crucial for building confidence, setting goals, and navigating the challenges of adolescence and early adulthood.

Social and Emotional Barriers

Traumatic experiences, mental health issues, and a lack of emotional support can severely impact a young person's ability to succeed. Our trainees often need additional psychological and emotional support to build resilience and cope with their circumstances.

Limited Employment Opportunities

Without proper guidance and skill development, vulnerable youth may struggle to find meaningful employment. They often lack the necessary job readiness skills, work
experience, and professional networks that can open doors to career opportunities.

Systemic Barriers

Structural inequalities and systemic barriers such as racial discrimination, gender bias, and social stigma can further hinder the progress of vulnerable young people. Overcoming these requires tailored interventions and support.

Health and Well-being

The health and well-being of our trainees can be compromised due to inadequate healthcare, poor living conditions, and high levels of stress. Ensuring their physical and mental health is supported is a key part of our holistic approach.

From our Executive Manager

Andrew Lawlor | Executive Manager of The Ready Foundation

"At The Ready Foundation, we believe in empowering vulnerable youth to unlock boundless futures. Through tailored support, compassionate community engagement, and comprehensive resources, we aim to break down barriers, unleash potential, and pave the way for a world where every young person thrives without limits."

  • Imagine a young person, full of potential, but held back by circumstances beyond their control. They face daily struggles that seem insurmountable: getting to a job interview, affording the right attire, or having the tools to communicate. Your support can make a profound difference.

  • Meet MAYA

    Consider the story of Maya, a young woman from a marginalized community who faced numerous challenges and limited prospects. Before connecting with The Ready Foundation, Maya struggled to envision a future filled with opportunities. With our support, including financial assistance for travel, personal guidance from dedicated mentors, and skill development workshops, Maya was empowered to pursue her aspirations. Today, Maya is not only successfully employed but also actively contributing to her community's growth. Your donation makes these success stories possible, transforming barriers into stepping stones.

John Hollows - First Nations Mentor

"As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mentor for AFL SportsReady, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of mentorship.

As a mentor, I provide crucial guidance, cultural understanding, role modeling, networking opportunities, personal development, emotional support, and community connections. This comprehensive support helps individual navigate challenges enabling them to embrace their potential."

"The impact of mentorship is profound. It goes beyond simply providing guidance and support—it creates a ripple effect of empowerment and transformation."

JOHN HOLLOWS, MENTOR

MITCHELL INSTITUTE REPORT NO. 02/2017

The Real Cost of Missing Out

Vulnerable young people who are considered "disengaged" incur significant costs by leaving school early and not being fully involved in work, education, or training by age 24. A disengaged individual can cost taxpayers (fiscal), government and communities (social) $1.5 million over their lifetime.

  • $37,000

    A disengaged individual can cost $37,900 annually. (Fiscal + Social Costs)

  • $1.5 Million

    A disengaged individual can cost $1.5 million over their lifetime. (Fiscal + Social Costs)

  • $68.3 Billion

    Total cost of ALL disengaged individuals over a lifetime. (Total Fiscal + Total Social Costs)