Students from Saint Ignatius College recently had an opportunity to spend four days at our Brighton neighbourhood, as part of their Year 11 Ignatius Service Program.
Chloe, Lucy, Alex, Ruby, Lucas, and Grace thoroughly enjoyed their time at Minda, which provided an opportunity to learn how the organisation works on a day-to-day basis.
Over the course of their four-day experience, the students were able to learn about and participate in the many programs at MyPath, as well as get their hands dirty at Envirocare.
Being able to venture outside of their comfort zone was something the students enjoyed. Learning more about the disability sector resulted in the students developing key life skills.
“Whether it was at MyPath, Envirocare or just around the site, it was very clear to see that the staff were passionate about what they do. They are great role models.”
Despite being familiar with Minda as a disability services provider, Grace said she was unaware of the range of support services that the organisation provides.
“Over the four days, I was able to see the different services that Minda provides. It was great to see that these services enable the people Minda support to achieve their goals,” Grace said.
After walking around the Lifestyle Precinct, the students were amazed with the hive of activity that takes place across various engaging MyPath programs.
“We were fortunate to be involved with the pottery, art, and cooking programs. It was great to see people participating in activities that bring them joy and a sense of pride,” Lucy said.
Passionate was the most common word used when describing the staff they observed over the four days they visited the Brighton neighbourhood.
“Whether it was at MyPath, Envirocare or just around the site, it was very clear to see that the staff were passionate about what they do. They are great role models,” Chloe said.
“For me, I reckon it allowed me to learn skills that I will carry with me into the future, such as being a better communicator with people living with an intellectual disability."
Lucas added that staff had a great connection with the people they support, resulting in an “I can do anything I put my mind to” type attitude.
All of the six students have bright and successful careers ahead of them, and the skills they learnt from their experience at Minda will stay with them well into the future.
“For me, I reckon it allowed me to learn skills that I will carry with me into the future, such as being a better communicator with people living with an intellectual disability,” Alex said.
While Chloe, Lucy, Alex, Lucas, Ruby, and Grace’s stay at Minda was brief, the memories and skills they learnt over the four days will last a lifetime.