![Newfound confidence: Cambridge Park resident Siam Cameron (right) with Jobfind supervisor Bill Wood, who said: "The confidence and sense of self-worth gained by participants [in the Work for the Dole program] means they're more comfortable socialising with people from different backgrounds. Pictures: Geoff Jones](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-feed-data/55e899e1-b76d-4c37-b030-8f5a4886513b.jpg/r0_0_5184_3456_w576_h298_fmax.webp "Newfound confidence: Cambridge Park resident Siam Cameron (right) with Jobfind supervisor Bill Wood, who said: \"The confidence and sense of self-worth gained by participants [in the Work for the Dole program] means they're more comfortable socialising with people from different backgrounds. Pictures: Geoff Jones")
Fusion Western Sydney, Joiningthedots and Jobfind are joining forces to bring together potential employers with jobseekers at the Welcome Dinner Project launch at St Marys on March 18.
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The dinner at Fusion Youth and Community Centre will help more than 30 Work for the Dole job seekers to show their skills and to establish networks while increasing their chance of finding work.
Cambridge Park resident Siam Cameron, 27, said it's not uncommon for people to succumb to the "dole bludger" concept.
"Since I started coming to Fusion I've learned new barista skills, started doing art and I'm more confident," he said.
Centre manager Judy Tweeddale says Fusion cares for those isolated in the community by giving them new skills.
Penny Elsley, founder of not-for-profit organisation Joiningthedots said the Welcome Dinner Project provided ongoing opportunities for newly-arrived people to interact with the community.
Disconnection is the root of all social problems.
- Penny Elsley
"The project was a beautiful way for employers and potential employees to meet in a more relaxed setting.
"It's creative, refreshing and it brings everyone to the same level and you look at each other in a different way," Ms Elsley said.
