Youth Projects – Strategic Objectives and New Initiatives

Youth Projects is an independent charity that provides critical and unique front line support to vulnerable people experiencing disadvantage, unemployment, homelessness, alcohol and other drug issues. Rotary Central Melbourne has supported Youth Projects over a number of years. They deliver primary health services, AOD counselling, Youth Employment & Skills Development programs, Night Nursing on the streets of Melbourne's CBD, unique Drug Safety programs and a wonderful Social Enterprise.

Youth Projects take a harm minimisation approach with No Judgement, Full Stop! They are a change makers and trail blazers. They go where others won't and support those who needs us most!

Ben Vasiliou was the former CEO of SkillsPlus and BRACE, an innovative non profit organisation delivering education and employment support for young people, refugee’s, people with a disability and those who are unemployed. Ben led the organisation through considerable growth underpinned by a unique partnership model. Harnessing the theory that it takes a village to raise a child, Ben brought together Industry, Employers, Government and the Community to deliver holistic responses to the needs of vulnerable people.

Ben is well versed in the need to modernise and sophisticate the non profit way of thinking, whilst anchoring the DNA and purpose of such organisations into our every day thinking. Ben wants to shift the narrative, from UNemployment to EMployment. From Homelessness to Pathways OUT of Homelessness.

Ben was appointed as CEO of Youth Projects in September 2017 and is leading the way in prevention and early intervention for young people, giving them the opportunity to be the best they can be!