A Dream Come True for Disadvantaged Volunteer

21.12.2009
Michael Bray, 23 has had his dream come true after years of hope. His dreams of employment and training are now becoming reality with thanks to the charity Friendship Zone in Northampton. Through an amazing scheme by Future Job Fund Michael has now been offered paid employment at his current voluntary position at Friendship Zone.

Michael is disadvantaged by Arthrogryposis, and although being young and full of life this has hindered his search for a job dramatically. Because of his condition, he was out of employment for 2 years. Very courageously earlier this year he launched himself in at the deep end by taking on a work placement opportunity at local charity Friendship Zone. Here he has been a dedicated and valued member of the team proving he has many beneficial and valuable qualities to offer an organisation.

His responsibilities at Friendship Zone over the past year have included the moderation of the social networking website, becoming proficient at using the site and helping to improve its user friendliness. He has also been maintaining a live blog on line about his daily experiences, his troubles and achievements.

Friendship Zone feel that increased activity and social contact has helped Michael develop skills, boost his self-esteem and enable him to participate in enjoyable activities more often - such as going out to eat.

Although this placement has given Michael invaluable experience, knowledge and further his skills of working within a professional organisation, this placement was only on a voluntary basis.

In accordance with Friendship Zones’ ethos to “make dreams come true” they have now had the opportunity to make this happen for Michael. Friendship Zone was one of the first organisations in Northampton to be lucky enough to be involved in a national scheme run by Future Job Fund. This proposal is together combating unemployment and is creating 20 jobs for young hopefuls in Northampton, giving them the chance for a 6 month paid work contract with the charity. Michael was lucky enough to be eligible for this and has grabbed the opportunity with both hands!

Director of Friendship Zone Paul Kuznecovs says that “ We are helping peoples dreams come true by giving them some of the most simplest things in life – a chance to earn a living for themselves, and that's really very special “

He goes on to say that “We all have dreams, and people with disabilities need their dreams even more than other people. Why? If you don’t have a dream, then you cannot imagine your future. People with disabilities think a lot about what they cannot do. We encourage you to change your thinking and focus on what you can do.”

To apply for this opportunity please visit Job Centre Plus to see if you are eligible. For more information on Friendship Zone please visit www.friendship-zone.com