The Mission Australia Catalyst program gives disadvantaged people the chance to access University education. The program offers humanities courses on-site at the Mission Australia Centre (MAC) in conjunction with the Australian Catholic University. Students enrolled in Catalyst are from Mission Australia’s homeless services and other services. Each student is partnered with a volunteer learning partner (VLP), who helps the student come to grips with the formal education process, provides guidance with time management, research skills and essay writing, and encourages students to persevere with the course.

Phillip Allen is a volunteer learning partner with Catalyst; this is his story:

Through the Catalyst program, Mission Australia is bridging the divide between life on the streets and the ivory towers of University. My role as a learning partner with the Catalyst program has given me first-hand experience in seeing the growth in the students self-esteem. The program is truly amazing - I can see each week the enthusiasm for learning that the students develop - it is infectious.

There is a well-structured class timetable and set learning outcomes, but that is not really what it is about. The students in this program have varied and difficult pasts; they are struggling with many demons and this program is about re-awakening the light within. We discuss art, and the characters in Shakespeare's play; the students are full of energy, alive and hungry for information.

During the last six weeks I have seen some amazing changes in the Catalyst students. I've witnessed the raising of confidence, and the spark of hope in their eyes. This program also provides students with invaluable communication, literacy and computer skills.

The Mission Australia Centre is such a positive environment giving people the opportunity to take part in Shakespeare discussions, guitar classes and art classes. Despite the significant challenges each student faces in their own path to overcome homelessness and addiction, the Catalyst Program, and all the staff and volunteers involved, are lighting the way for those in need.

We are currently seeking Learning Partners for the Catalyst Program. Call 02 9288 0070 or email volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au for more information.