PCYC in association with Sureway Employment and Training has successfully sponsored the Work for the Dole activities for the past 18 months.

Participants have had the opportunity to retain and acquire skills relevant to the local labour market, along with maintaining routine, responsibility and social interaction in their lives.

Numerous tasks are undertaken including administration, childcare, cleaning, maintenance duties, painting and gardening.

Under the current program the PCYC was painted throughout. As a result, the club’s aesthetic feel has been boosted greatly.

Anthony Dawson (Sureway CWC Coordinator) said the Work for the Dole program had provided the PCYC with much needed help and funding.

`This has contributed to the club’s continued status as one of Parkes’ most valuable community organisations,’ Mr Dawson said.

`Work for the Dole has positive outcomes for both participants and community based organisations. In particular, participants are able to remain job ready as a result of the skills and responsibilities they learn.’

Mr Dawson said community based not-for-profit organizations benefit through the contribution of the participants and the funding made available through Work for the Dole.

Sureway Employment and Training is contracted to provide Work for the Dole activities in the Parkes Employment Service area.