Rory's Journey into Work Experience
Local Kalgoorlie mother, Karen, hopes that her story can inspire other parents in a similar position to her;
Karen’s 14 year old son, Rory has found his rhythm through Workpower's programs. Rory has Autism, ADHD, and mood dysregulation.
Starting with our School Holiday Program, Rory has now secured a weekly work experience role with Workpower’s Kalgoorlie Packaging, Warehousing, and Property Services teams, every Wednesday from 8 am to 3 pm.
Rory’s mother, Karen, first heard about Workpower through his Support Coordinator and had seen posts across Workpower’s social media platforms. She decided to sign Rory up for Workpower Kalgoorlie’s School Holiday Program and hasn’t looked back!
“Workpower is like therapy for Rory,” Karen shares. “I let him choose which day and time worked for him, which was important for his independence.”
Rory flourished in Kalgoorlie’s School Holiday Program. He enjoyed making friends, participating in cooking classes, and going on excursions to places like the gaming lounge and Kalgoorlie’s museum.
Rory’s favourite part of the program was the work experience day in packaging. This experience paved the way for his current role.
Since joining Workpower, Karen has noticed significant changes in Rory’s attitude and behaviour. Spending a full day at work has given him a newfound appreciation for responsibility and a positive outlook on employment in the future.
“He’s more motivated to find a job after school. He can’t wait to turn 17 so he can start working at Workpower officially!” Karen says.
Working alongside the team has even encouraged Rory to adapt to wearing long pants as part of his work uniform, despite his preference for shorts, which a small but meaningful step in learning responsibility.
For Karen, seeing Rory take on this role has been both a relief and a joy.
“It’s fantastic! I’m grateful to have found Workpower. I wish Kalgoorlie had even more programs like in Perth,” she says.
Karen believes this experience will help Rory secure a steady job in the future, building the skills he needs for independence and further growth.
Karen encourages other parents to give Workpower’s programs a try.
“The team, especially Nat, Viv, and Ray, have been wonderful,” she says. “Starting with the School Holiday Program was perfect for Rory, and it’s led him here. I tell other parents to not hesitate and just go for it!”
With Workpower’s support, Rory continues to take on new challenges with confidence, resilience, and enthusiasm, as he works towards his goal of joining the workforce full-time.