When Jennifer first connected with CVGT Employment in Horsham, she was facing a series of overwhelming challenges. Anxiety and depression made day‑to‑day life difficult. Jennifer had limited accommodation after escaping family violence, very little work or education history, and were navigating drug‑dependence issues. Despite all of this, Jennifer showed courage by taking the first step toward rebuilding her life.

A Foundation of Support

From the beginning, Jennifer’s employment consultant Cassie provided consistent, compassionate support, often speaking with her daily. Recognising the need for stabilisation and specialised care, Cassie referred her to the Making a Change (MAC) structured alcohol and other drug day rehabilitation program through Grampians Community Health. Jennifer committed to the full eight‑week program, demonstrating remarkable resilience and willingness to change.

Stepping away from one life and starting another has been very challenging but rewarding.
Jennifer, CVGT Employment participant

Building Skills and Confidence

After completing MAC, Jennifer worked closely with her consultant Cassie to prepare for employment. Together they developed a resume, completed a reverse marketing form, organised for Jennifer to complete a Food Handlers Course and attend CVGT’s Job Canvassing Club. Jennifer also met with CVGT’s Business Development Consultant to explore employers actively seeking staff and completed an external

To strengthen her job readiness, Jennifer completed a series of CVGT workshops, including:

• Health, Hygiene and Presentation
• Resume Preparation
• Interview Techniques

These sessions helped Jennifer build practical skills and, importantly, confidence.

The support has been amazing. CVGT backed me 100%, inspired me to change and they believed in me and helped me believe in myself
Jennifer, CVGT Employment participant

Removing Barriers to Work

CVGT Employment also provided essential material support to ensure Jennifer could present herself confidently at interviews. This included new clothes, a haircut, a replacement phone, and assistance with dental work. These supports helped Jennifer feel prepared and valued as she stepped into the next stage of their journey.

A Breakthrough Opportunity

Jennifer’s hard work paid off when she secured a position at the OTR service station. Even after starting work, CVGT continued to stand beside Jennifer,  including purchasing glasses when she found it difficult to read the till.

Jennifer’s employment consultant Cassie maintained weekly contact, offering encouragement and guidance. Although Jennifer began the role feeling nervous and unsure, by her third week she was noticeably more confident and genuinely enjoying her job.

I love everything about my job. I work with a great team and the customers are great. The pay is great too.
Jennifer, CVGT Employment participant

Thriving in the Workplace

Jennifer’s manager at OTR quickly recognised her potential, describing her as terrific and beginning to train her to work independently. The employer also appreciated the wage subsidy and training support offered, which strengthened the partnership and ensured a smooth transition into the role.

Jennifer’s journey is a powerful example of what can happen when determination meets the right support. From facing significant personal barriers to thriving in a new job, Jennifer has shown incredible resilience, and her future now looks brighter than ever. Jennifer offered these words of encouragement for other job seekers looking to change their lives.

Don’t give up, we are all capable. If I can do it anybody can.
Jennifer, CVGT Employment participant

Her consultant Cassie, couldn’t be prouder:

Jennifer is inspiring. The courage and determination she has shown over the last 9 months has been astounding. The difference between who I first met and year and a half ago to now is incredible. From a person with no belief in herself to the person who get’s it done, it’s fantastic.
Cassie
CVGT Employment Consultant