Youth Substance Abuse Service program leader Blithe Swebbs (left) with Jess, Richard, Chris, Justin, Jess and Steph take part in the visual art program.A DANDENONG youth service is putting back on track young people with drug habits.
The Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS) helps young people from 12 to 21 with drugrelated problems.
YSAS day program worker Blithe Swebbs said the service aimed at engaging young people in opportunities for a healthy and meaningful lifestyle without drugs.
“The organisation employs a multidisciplinary team of skilled and experienced drug and alcohol workers ,” Ms Swebbs said.
The Recreational, Educational, Vocational, and Lifeskills program (REVAL) is one of the successful YSAS services.
“The program aims to assist young people in their journey towards alleviating problematic substance use issues, and towards quality lifestyle choices,” Ms Swebbs said.
“It offers a safe place where young people can take advantage of opportunities that may not normally be available to them.”
She said REVAL was most beneficial to young people serious about changing their lifestyles.
“We help young people in writing resumes, job seeking, work readiness and navigating Centrelink and other services. “We also run structured programs involving visual art, recreation and sporting activities like tennis, archery, rock climbing and cooking.”
Accredited YSAS staff helps in the REVAL training.
The REVAL program is a free service, based at level 1/7 Mason St, Dandenong.
Most programs run from 11am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Phone 9706 7255 for more information.
