The Australian Charities Fund Operations Limited

With the support of the New South Wales Juvenile Justice, Department of Human Service and employment partners, Whitelion is bringing its specialised Employment Program to Sydney.

As a new organisation to NSW, Whitelion National Corporate Partnerships Manager Anna Jenko said Whitelion needs to establish connections with businesses across the State who can help by offering employment opportunities to young people or by contributing much needed workplace giving funds.

In Victoria, Jenko said valuable workplace giving donations from partner Minter Ellison are used to help Whitelion get more kids jobs.

Jenko said the security of regular donations from NSW-based workplace giving partners would help ensure program sustainability, and enable Whitelion to help kids that aren't yet in the Juvenile Justice system or referred through Juvenile Justice.

“There's such a big gap we're just scratching the surface of the kids who need help. Right now with the NSW Juvenile Justice grant we can help about 40 kids a year, but there are roughly 500 kids in lock-up detention in NSW every day."

Since opening its NSW doors, Jenko said Whitelion has been approached by community youth organisations asking for help.

“Without more funding we're not able to help them."

Whitelion opens doors to opportunities, relationships and the community for young people involved or at risk of involvement in the Youth Justice System.

“Employment can help rebuild lives and help young people re-connect with the wider community. The program builds ongoing and sustainable partnerships with employers which are beneficial to the young person and the organisation. This is a great opportunity for businesses to give something back, engage with the community and change lives" Jenko said.

Since its inception in 2000, the Whitelion Employment Program has offered a unique and highly individual approach to finding young people at risk real jobs with real wages through the provision of support to both employers and young people.

“These programs often also generate meaningful experiences for Whitelion workplace giving partners and volunteers, supported by committed professional staff" she said.