Young people's stories: Milo

Milo* is taking an exciting step toward his future, beginning an apprenticeship as a carpenter. His journey with CASPA’s Hammers 4 Hope team has provided him with the skills and experience to transition confidently into this new chapter of his life.

Hammers 4 Hope is CASPA’s team of licensed tradespeople, maintaining CASPA properties and offering services to local businesses and the wider community. More than just a maintenance team, Hammers 4 Hope works closely with CASPA’s education team to offer young people in care hands-on experience and job readiness, creating pathways to meaningful employment as they transition to independent adulthood.

Milo first expressed an interest in joining the Hammers 4 Hope team as he prepared to leave out-of-home care. CASPA’s education team worked with him to identify areas for growth, focusing on workplace expectations and skills to help him succeed. Recognising that traditional schooling wasn’t the right fit, they arranged for Milo to join a "Try a Trade" Construction program. The course balanced continuing education with flexibility, allowing Milo to gain practical, on-the-job experience with the Hammers 4 Hope team.

Guided by Scott, Hammers 4 Hope’s lead, Milo built a solid foundation of skills and earned his Certificate I in Construction. These achievements have led him to the next stage of his journey, an apprenticeship that will help him take his skills to the next level and set him on the path to his career goals.

Milo’s story is an example of the opportunities programs like Hammers 4 Hope can provide, helping young people develop the confidence and tools they need to take charge of their future.

*Name has been changed for privacy.