Our stories

Building a just society means elevating everyone by supporting all people to reach their full potential. Every success story is crucial because none of us can flourish, until we all do.

Trainer Tessa empowers participants to overcome self-doubt and find employment
- 14 September 2023
As a Jesuit Community College trainer, Tessa has had the privilege of seeing her former students find employment in many areas including nursing, teaching, administration and the arts. The employment course supports participants to build the practical skills, mindset and confidence needed to find meaningful work.
Accompanying people on their path to employment
- 13 September 2023
Hear how our Education, Training and Employment team have navigated funding cuts to the Jobs Victoria Employment Services (JVES) program, exploring new ways to find pathways to employment for people who face significant barriers to social and economic inclusion.
Victoria Police’s ‘most diverse squad yet’ graduates Academy
- 11 September 2023
Three of Victoria Police’s newest constables have found their place in their squad thanks to the support of Jesuit Social Services’ diversity program – graduating last week as members of the Victoria Police Academy’s most culturally diverse group yet. Twenty-four Academy graduates from 10 cultural and linguistic backgrounds were sworn in before their families and…
How music connects hearts in grief and helps in healing
- 9 June 2023
When musician and anthropologist Glenn McDonald’s mum passed away from suicide in 2011, music played an important part in his recovery. His mum encouraged a love of music from an early age, and since her loss, Glenn has used music to help connect with her, through songs she used to play. Music has also been…
Empowering young people on the path to recovery through connection to nature
- 8 June 2023
The Outdoor Experience utilises a Bush Adventure Therapy to supports young people struggling with substance abuse and mental health. Learn how the program empowers participants to move forward on their journey to recovery.
Open Pantry helping provide food security and connection
- 7 June 2023
Hear how Open Pantry delivers healthy meals and community for the Western Sydney residents.
Music workshops encourage self-expression in Alice Springs school
- 7 June 2023
Hear how students at Yipirinya School have workshopped songs and laid down beats with ARIA Award-winning musician Adrian Eagle, as part of a new relationship between the school and Jesuit Social Services that will provide opportunities for performance, self-expression, and new narratives for First Nations young people in Mparntwe/Alice Springs.
Creative harmony
- 5 June 2023
Hear how Artful Dodgers Studios’ innovative model connects young people to supports and a sense of belonging
Jesuit Social Services staff explore how nature-based therapy can enhance their practice
- 1 June 2023
On a rainy morning in a patch of Kew bushland, Jesuit Social Services staff gathered to learn about nature-based therapeutic practice and the ways it can enhance their work with participants, and improve their own wellbeing.
An ‘open-door’, place-based approach for First Nations people
- 31 May 2023
Recently, Jesuit Social Services’ Centre for Just Places, our hub for place-based action, research and advocacy, was commissioned by the Victorian government to investigate what makes some place-based approaches so effective. Our team, alongside partners RMIT University, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) and the University of Queensland, explored existing literature and practice, publishing a research…