Blacktown youth centre gets a facelift

The Blacktown Youthlink centre in Sydney's west has received a long overdue renovation after a team of 50 builders volunteered their time to upgrade the facility.

Taylor, a construction company in partnership with sub contractors and suppliers, donated their time and personnel for the project.

Electricians, plumbers and carpenters spent two days installing a new kitchen, renovating the training room and constructing an outdoor covered patio area.

“It’s a great space for the kids to be in now. It’s a really good learning environment – bright and cheery. They’ve also got great new items like a TV and furniture,” said Youthlink Blacktown General Manager James Selby.

Youthlink is a specialist youth service which provides early-intervention intensive case management and vocational training programs for disadvantaged and at-risk youth.

Twelve young people connected to the Blacktown centre were on site during the renovations and spent time watching the workers, who shared some of their skills.

“I don’t think they [the youth] will ever forget it – a once-in-a-lifetime thing for some of those kids,” James said.

Taylor Senior Project Manager Peter Wilson, who oversaw the work, said it was a very busy two days, but a rewarding experience for all involved.

“As a company we are proud to offer our services for community projects such as Youthlink,” he said. “It provides an opportunity for staff, sub contractors and suppliers to work together and play a part in a great program which has a long-term benefit to the community and the young people engaging with the program.

“James and his staff are doing a fantastic job and if we can help make the space more in line with their requirements then we feel we have provided something of benefit. We attended for two days to assist, but they are doing all the hard yards day in and day out.”

Masters Home Improvement supplied all the building materials, indoor and outdoor furniture, a high-quality kitchen and appliances.

Other donations to the new facilities included furniture from Zanui, electrical items from The Good Guys and decorator items from Woolworths.

By Nathalia Rickwood