Community changes everything.

Being part of Vacro’s community of supporters helps us to ease the transition home from prison for more people. When a person successfully reintegrates back into their community, they can live a life they’re proud of, reconnect with their families, and contribute to a stronger society.

In the past, Tony struggled with depression. Without a safety net around him, Tony came into contact with the criminal justice system. 

About this time last year, Corrections Victoria referred Tony to Second Chance Cycles so he could complete his Community Corrections Order. At first, Tony volunteered at the workshop one day a week. In time, as his trust and confidence grew, Tony attended the workshop a couple of days each week.

For six months, Tony worked hands-on with real tools, on real bikes, learning practical mechanical skills. By helping to manage the daily operations of the workshop, Tony became confident to independently solve problems, contribute to the team, and help customers.

Reflecting on how Second Chance Cycles helped him, Tony said:

"It gave me time to focus and rethink, not to make the same mistakes ever again. I never knew I could be a bike mechanic!

It's given me a sense of routine, belonging, and purpose, and contribution.

The hours have been filled with healthy, social interaction.

It's been so gratifying to see someone cheerfully ride off on their new bike, their new bike that I helped to fix!"

After having met the responsibilities of his Community Corrections Order, Tony didn't hang up his Second Chance Cycles tool-belt. Tony now volunteers at the workshop helping others - who are in the position he was in this time last year - taking the first steps toward their second chance. 

Vacro is a proudly independent, non-denominational and not-for-profit organisation with more than 150 years of experience in the Victorian community. Our staff live in the communities where they work. We know that the people we support want to contribute to society. They want to strengthen bonds with their families. They want to be their best selves. But it’s hard to do this alone.

Your donation enables us to give more people and families practical and personal support during what can be the hardest and loneliest time in a person’s life. With your support, we can be there. Together, we can change lives.

See the impact of our work.

If you believe in new beginnings and stand for strong communities, you believe in Vacro’s work. Chip in with a tax-deductible donation to support us today.

---

Vacro is endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) from 01 Jul 2000. It is covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.