Bridging the Gaps is an early intervention program which caters for young people within the City of Greater Bendigo (COGB between 12-18 years who are currently enrolled in a local secondary college or alternative. Our program caters for up to 75 young people within the COGB region, identified as being at severe educational and psychological risk, are selected to participate in the program. Students referred present with a range of issues, including, anxiety, aggression, PTSD, depression, suicidal thoughts and disability and are often irregular in attendance. Bridging the Gaps provides a lifeline.
Our young people are disengaged and typically, not attending school (or barely), there will be mental health issues, trauma, a lack of life and social skills, and a devoid of positive social connectedness. Many of our young people may have already tried to attempt suicide, been the victims of bullying, abuse, generational crime or substance abuse. Students exchange a day of normal school to help us train assistance dogs for children with autism/type 1- diabetes. (Simular to turn about ranch).
Our whole program is designed to help our students see the promise within and bring that promise into their daily lives. We work with students on core behaviours that are blocking them from sucessfully completing their secondary education.
We work with a student and school welfare co-ordinators for a minimum of 12 months. Many students return for another year to mentor another student who is beginning the process- reach one teach one.
Our students attend one day per week and we get great engagement – its the dogs not us! We set individual goals for each student in consultation with welfare co-ordinators.
Financial Institution: Bendigo Bank
Name of Account: Righteous Pups Australia Inc
BSB: 633-000
Account No: 125 823 583
