In addition to awarding new and renewal scholarships to talented and motivated young people, Western Chances facilitates a range of excellent and potentially life changing opportunities for young people in Melbourne’s west and the City of Greater Geelong via our education, business and community partners.
To date, Western Chances recipients have benefited from over $5.4 million in Links opportunities.
These opportunities achieve our vision to help young people reach their potential and provide a holistic approach to supporting recipients for the long term. The opportunities assist young people to identify and achieve their education and career goals and meet needs they have identified as important to their success and wellbeing. These are high-quality experiences that the young people may not otherwise access, be aware of, or be able to afford.
University & College Opportunities
Western Chances partners with a number of universities and College’s to provide opportunities for Western Chances recipients to access laptops and scholarships, including College residential and non-residential scholarships.
Our collaborators include the Dafydd & Mary Jane Lewis Trust, Janet Clarke Hall, Mannix College, Newman College, Ormond College, Trinity College, Deakin University, RMIT University, and Victoria University.
In 2023, Western Chances recipients benefited from over $760,000 in scholarships and other education supports.
Camp Programs
Western Chances recipients are offered free places at a range of camps each year including the Lord & Lady Somers ‘Big Camp’ and the Spark Engineering camp. These camps bring together young people from all backgrounds for a unique, once in a lifetime experience to develop their team building skills, build their confidence and create lifelong memories.
In 2023, Western Chances recipients benefited from over $9,500 in camp opportunities.
Tutoring & Mentoring Programs
Western Chances recipients are able to access free tutoring and mentoring programs to support them with VCE studies and to build their networks.
Our collaborators include EY Career Coaching, Skyline HATCH and The Institute for Enquiring Minds.
In 2023, Western Chances recipients benefited from over $56,000 in tutoring and mentoring opportunities.
Ticket Giveaways
Western Chances secondary, tertiary recipients and alumni are offered free tickets to cultural and sporting events, including art exhibitions, concerts, festivals and football matches.
In 2023, Western Chances recipients benefited from over $13,500 in free tickets.
Western Chances will advise recipients and alumni of free ticket opportunities when they become available.
For all opportunities, please contact the Programs Team on 8345 7813 or info@westernchances.org.au