The Victorian State Government has announced a funding boost for the Women’s Spirit Project (WSP), to bring the highly sought after Spirit of Transformation (SOT) program to the City of Casey over the next 3 years.
The WSP is excited to be working with local partners to plan for the implementation of the program which inspires and empowers women experiencing disadvantage to transform their lives. The SOT Program is a free, 11-week program designed by women, for women aged 25 years or older who have experienced life challenges including but not limited to isolation, domestic and family violence, poor mental health, poverty and un(der) employment.
Over eleven weeks, participants work with highly skilled facilitators and pro bono mentors from local communities who deliver an inspirational fitness, health and wellbeing curriculum.
The program is designed to develop the courage, determination and strategies required for participants to recover from trauma and in turn create change within their families and communities. Participants meet weekly to build mental, emotional, and physical resilience.
Chair of the WSP Board, Kathy Heffernan says, “The ‘Spirit of Transformation’ program enables our participants to (re)-build their fitness, health and wellbeing, feeling both empowered and motivated! Belonging to a supportive community of women, participants have an increased sense of connectedness, reducing social isolation and loneliness.
“Their increased community spirit opens them to opportunities to further empower each other and in turn, inspire others”, adds Kathy.
With improved confidence, self-esteem, independence, and decision-making skills, alongside new knowledge and skills around communication, teamwork, goal setting, self-management, problem solving and coping mechanisms, participants are well equipped to develop a plan for their future that brings to life personal and professional hopes, dreams, and aspirations.
Kit McMahon CEO of Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE) said “We know from evidence that programs like the Spirit of Transformation are vital for the health and wellbeing of women. There are many barriers in place for women to improve their wellbeing including access to quality support, expertise and skilled workers, and connection with community that can address the debilitating impacts of loneliness and poor mental health”.
“WHISE is proud to be partners of the Women’s Spirit Project and delighted that the Victorian Government has provided resources to get SOT to Casey,” said Kit McMahon.
Participants continue to work towards their end goal of a three-day trek all the way from Frankston to Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula, with the next one being held in November 2024. In the lead up to the walk, free Catch Up and Connect Walks are offered as fun, social outdoor activities that gradually build our strength, fitness and sense of belonging”, says Kathy.
