Members from the Caloundra Community Hub recently held their first pop-up succulent stall at Stockland Caloundra, as part of a work experience initiative known as Project New Life.
“Today is our first pop-up store at Caloundra Stockland,” the team shared during the event. “We’ve got six throughout the year.”
The initiative involves attendees of the hub, creating upcycled succulent arrangements using recycled crockery and pottery. All proceeds from sales are directed back into supporting activities at the Hub.
“We’re actually selling some beautiful nice planted succulents,” Maryanne, one of the Hub regulars said.
The stall was timed ahead of Valentine’s Day, with participants promoting the plants as a longer-lasting alternative to traditional flowers.
When asked why the succulents were better than roses, Maryanne responded, “Cause if we had roses they would die like that.”
The plants were priced at $10 each.
“$10! ” Christopher, another Hub regular confirmed is a “good bargain.”
Real-World Skill Development
The pop-up store forms part of the Hub’s focus on practical skill development in a real-world setting. Participants engaged in greeting customers, handling transactions and promoting the products throughout the day.
Supported by CSBS staff, the team made their fair share of sales throughout the day
Christopher, who has work experience as a personal goal, said he enjoys “meeting new people”.
The Hub plans six pop-up stores across the year, including seasonal themes such as Easter and Mother’s Day.
Programs at the Caloundra Community Hub
The Caloundra Community Hub operates Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm and offers a variety of structured activities.
Maryanne attends on Wednesdays and Thursdays and said she enjoys “going to the library”.
The Hub’s library program involves borrowing books, sharing lunch and creating stories together.
Christopher identified “the bowling buddies” is his favourite activity.
“Mondays,” he confirmed when asked which day the Bowling Buddies group meets.
Attendees also take part in a peer recognition initiative known as “Cheers for Peers,” where individuals nominate each other for positive contributions.
Christopher recently received the weekly award.
“Oh yeah!” he said.
He is known for assisting with daily tasks at the Hub, including managing the “rubbish bin” duties each afternoon.
Opposite: Caloundra Community Hub attendee – Christopher
Project New Life
Project New Life was developed to provide participants with practical work experience in a supported environment. In addition to customer interaction, the project incorporates elements of marketing, money handling and teamwork.
“All proceeds go straight back into the program,” staff explained, noting that the initiative helps keep activity costs accessible.
With additional pop-up events scheduled throughout the year, the Caloundra Community Hub will continue to provide opportunities for the attendees to engage with the broader community while building practical skills.
Opposite: Maryanne – Hub attendee and green thumb enthusiast.
For more information about the Caloundra Community Hub and upcoming pop-up events, please reach out via the link below.