MatchWorks and Green Collect creating sustainable work and world
A partnership between MatchWorks and Green Collect has provided stable, inclusive employment for more than twenty people living with disability.
Before starting with Green Collect in August 2022, thirty-year-old Cian’s mental illness had been a barrier to sustainable employment. The West Footscray resident was in a recurring cycle of unemployment and unreliable casual work.
“Green Collect are really good with understanding people’s situations and are very flexible,” Cian said.
“It’s a very inclusive workplace. I just fell in love with the job and the people there.”
Cian has regular shifts as a processing team member at the resource recovery social enterprise. He also enjoys working in Green Collect’s Braybrook retail store, feeling valued as an all-rounder that they can rely on.
“It’s given me a lot of stability and routine that I was lacking when I wasn’t working,” he said.
“It makes me feel I’m needed, and it makes me feel like I’m doing something important.”
Green Collect processes and recycles more than 150 tonnes of stationery, electronics, furniture, clothing, and homewares every year.
The MatchWorks partnership with the social enterprise is creating employment and training pathways for people who experience disadvantage and a range of barriers to employment, including intellectual disabilities and mental health issues.
“Our participants report such a positive and welcoming experience with Green Collect,” said Suzanne Khoury, MatchWorks Employment Engagement Partner.
“Our participants, including members of our Trans and LGBTIQA+ community, are treated with respect and their personalised and compassionate approach makes them feel like part of the family.”
She shares that participants are not only building work skills, but are developing confidence, social connections and improved self-esteem.
“It has helped them to recognise their potential,” she said.
For employees like Cian, developing valuable career skills in an inclusive workplace is creating a brighter, sustainable future.
“I’m happy to share my story because I’ve never been this settled and content in a job. And its great to be able to share with people that I’m actually doing really well!”
Our Disability Employment Services team are experts at helping people reach their full potential. In addition to finding you work that makes the most of your strengths and skills, our team will organise the support you need to succeed in your job. Learn more.