“You matter”- The reminder that helped Steven rebuild his life

Steven McMillan gave up working to care for his elderly mother full-time. After her passing, he was left grieving, and homeless. With his life packed into the boot and backseat of his car, Steven had no stability and direction. Every night was a desperate search for somewhere safe to sleep. Each day, a fight for survival. His world had been turned upside down.

“I met Steven at one of the lowest points in his life,” says Steve Briggs, an Employment Consultant with CVGT Employment Workforce Australia in Wodonga.

From homelessness to hope

“When Steven joined our Workforce Australia program, he was taking the first brave step toward rebuilding his life,” Steve Briggs adds. “He put his trust in me to help him find a way forward. The first thing I told him was, ‘You matter, and you have something valuable to offer.’ That moment sparked a complete shift in how he saw himself and his future.”

“When people find out your homeless, they will not look at you or give you the time of day,” Participant Steven shared. “But you guys at CVGT Employment have been amazing. You gave me guidance, support with fuel vouchers, interview and work clothes, food vouchers and courses.”

But most importantly, you believed in me and that I mattered. You treated me like a human being. I’ll never be able to thank you enough.
Steven McMillan
CVGT Employment Participant

The power of feeling seen

Despite his challenging circumstances, Steven enrolled in a series of short courses with Letizia’s Training & Development, a registered training organisation that empower individuals and organisations across regional Victoria with nationally recognised, job-ready training through flexible, personalised learning options.

“Steven enrolled in five short courses, always the first to arrive and the last to leave. Determined to seize every opportunity, he worked hard to boost his employability and reclaim his life.  His commitment earned him a forklift accreditation which opened the door to job opportunities,” Steve Briggs adds.

A new chapter

With support from the CVGT Employment Wodonga team, Steven secured an interview with local employer Rainbow Filters, and soon after, landed a full-time role in the factory.

“It was a turning point. One Steven met with deep gratitude. After months of uncertainty, he finally had stability, purpose, and the chance to rebuild his life,” says Steve Briggs.

“From all the team at CVGT Employment Wodonga, we wish you all the best in your new role Steven and look forward to continue supporting you.”

Connect to CVGT Employment

Accessing employment support with CVGT Employment can help you build positive relationships with caring and supportive experts.  

Some of the benefits include: 

If you are struggling and need support connect with one of our employment mentors today. Call 132 848 or visit cvgt.com.au