David's story

At least 300,000 young Australians aren't in school or a job. With you help we can give kids like David the best chance to realise their potential in life.

David’s young life was going nowhere fast ...

At 15 years old, David had more than his fair share to deal with. His parents separated, leaving David and his mum homeless. Soon after that, two of his best mates died in a horrific car crash.

That’s when he started going off the rails. Confused and angry, David began skipping school and getting into trouble.

He describes himself as a rebellious kid. ‘I don’t like being told off. You tell me off and I’ll tell you off. I got into trouble a lot, so I got labelled. I was the bad kid. The one who always failed and let people down.’

After falling far behind his peers at school, David finally gave up and dropped out. It was at that point his teachers suggested he swap mainstream school for Community VCAL, part of the Brotherhood’s community-based education programs. And things began to turn around.  

Our Community Learning program gives young people, especially those who may not thrive in a traditional school environment, an alternative way to finish school. The program helps kids overcome the barriers that are stopping them from finishing school, and offers ‘real world’ learning experiences that integrate literacy and numeracy. Students develop work-related and personal skills, as well as vocational experience.  

In a short time, David settled into learning in a positive environment, with a curriculum that suited him. This gave him the confidence to aim high. He was determined to do well and became the first person in his family to complete Year 12.

David is looking forward to getting his first job and supporting himself. ‘I didn’t used to believe in myself but now I feel like I can do anything.’

Poverty, homelessness, learning problems and family breakdown can rob children of their chance in life. With your help we can give them the best chance to succeed and contribute positively to our community for the rest of their lives.

Please donate to our Winter Appeal today.