WHEN Blairgowrie woman Pippa McPherson became a new mum six years ago, the lack of training and job opportunities for young people on the Mornington Peninsula became much more of a reality for her family. But instead of expecting someone else to fix it, McPherson has taken steps to make a difference and is calling for volunteers to help her achieve her goals.
While studying for her Bachelor of Counselling, McPherson is completing her work placement with the Rye Community House and has started a gardening club for young people that will hopefully lead to a mentoring program. “As a mum, I want there to be opportunities for young people without having to leave the peninsula. As I love horticulture, the idea is youth mentoring within a therapeutic horticulture environment,” she said. “We have been given a garden bed at the Rye Play and Grow Community garden to use and we will also do other plant activities at the house.
“I want to help combat social anxiety and give our young people a safe place to unwind and talk about any issues they may be facing at school or in their personal life.” It would be once a week, date and times to be confirmed, but most likely an after-school role. McPherson said she noticed there wasn’t much in the way of training or mentoring for young people in the southern end of the peninsula and knew that working with plants was therapeutic and a good way to get them into a healthy environment. “They don’t have to be passionate about gardening or plants, it’s just about learning and being part of something,” she said.
“We will be planting, propagating and learning about plants and where our food comes from, plus they will all get a plant to take home and care for.” Volunteers wanting to be involved in working with the garden club will require a working with children check and a police check. Email reception@ryech.org for an application form.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 29th May 2024
