When case manager Remi Kamo helps a young person put a roof over their head, get their driver’s license or get a job, she knows she’s helped someone going through tough times.
Ms Kamo works with the Lutheran Services’ Bridges Reconnect program at Woodridge which is this year celebrating its 21st year.
“In the three years I’ve been part of the program, I’ve had the privilege of helping many clients in difficult situations,” she said.
“I’ve seen people achieve great things, despite difficult circumstances that could have limited their ability to reach their full potential.”
It’s not always easy. The world can be unfair.
“But the rewards of helping someone navigate these circumstances far outweigh the challenges,” Ms Kamo said.
“I deal with it by seeing myself as someone in a position to help young people in hard situations. The simple act of listening to someone and holding space for them can make all the difference. That’s what keeps me going.”
Bridges Reconnect was established in response to the issue of homelessness and a need for crisis intervention services.
It was launched by Lutheran Services with a mission to help young people stabilise their living situation and build a future through counselling or group work.
“The positive flow-on from having safe accommodation is that many young people reconnect with education or employment and build their future from there,” Ms Kamo said.
“We provide early intervention services that help families manage relationships better, and link young Australians (aged 12-18) with employment and training, accommodation services and education.”
The young people are either homeless or at risk of homelessness. The program works with each individual case and with the schools.
Last year, a Youth Advisory Committee was set up comprising six former Bridges Reconnect clients from Logan and Brisbane’s southside. It was set up to hear from young people about things that matter in their world.
“Many of the people who come through Bridges Reconnect are economically disadvantaged and require basic needs like housing fulfilled,” Ms Kamo said.
“We also provide group facilitation sessions, which involves social and emotional parenting programs with families.”
