Killara Community Development
James Williams, a proud Yorta Yorta, Wiradjuri, Gunditjmara and Gunai man, is Community Development Officer at Killara Foundation.
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The role sees James supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by providing key contacts to pre-employment support, traineeship and up-skilling opportunities, career counselling, mentorship programs, and links to relevant social and welfare assistance.
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James is out in Community each week to provide a culturally-safe access point for Mob requiring support. These include council libraries such as Narrm Ngarrgu and Fitzroy libraries, Blak Pearl Studio, Dardi Munwurro, Galiamble and other meeting places through the city.
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"James connected with a First Nations artist as part of his weekly community engagement work at Port Melbourne library. Upon finding out about their work, James was able to introduce them to Karra Rees and the Public Arts team at the City of Yarra. The artist went on to hold an exhibition of their works at Fitzroy Library."
"An individual got in touch with James after he visited the Galiamble Men’s Recovery Centre and was able to receive help regarding careers and future employment opportunities. James assisted the person with securing employment in the construction industry and preparing for the job by aiding the purchase of work clothes from RSEA Safety."
"Through James’ weekly Photo ID and Birth Certificates service at Blak Pearl Studio, he connected with a regular member who was experiencing mental health issues and the risk of homelessness. After a Culturally safe yarn, James was able to connect the person with one of Killara’s partnering counsellors with experience in transcultural mental health support. They were able to get back on their feet, and secure stable housing whilst continuing to improve their wellbeing."
Address
Level 1, 90 Collins Street, Naarm (Melbourne), VIC 3000
Phone
(03) 9103 1464