By Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services' Managing Director
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya focuses on inclusivity and opportunity for International Day of People with Disability.
To see people for who they are and the things they are capable of is an incredibly simple and yet powerful gift.
When you encourage and support people to embody their potential, the impact can be monumental and that’s what IMPACT Community Services strives for daily.
Today, December 3, the International Day of People with Disability and this year’s theme is ‘Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world’.
IDPwD is about increasing awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.
IMPACT has spent years helping people improve their lives in line with their goals and passions by creating diverse and inclusive opportunities.
Our support services promote choice and control and are tailored to suit a person’s specific needs.
Our aim is to help people engage with your community and educational activities, to build their independence and overall confidence.
At IMPACT there are various avenues in which we are helping people with a disability engage and participate in the community.
From supported employment opportunities at the Material Recovery Facility, to developing new skills in Rob’s Shed and creating a fun and inclusive environment with the community choir; there’s something for everyone.
In Rob’s Shed, participants are taught how to use power tools and materials to construct a range of different items safely.
Time in the workshop is not only affording participants a chance to engage in a different activity, but also giving people an opportunity to learn and develop skills to move into employment.
The work done in Rob’s Shed is helping to build confidence, skills and of course woodworking projects.
Some of the past creations in the shed include bird boxes, toolboxes, pallet furniture and dog houses.
IMPACT also has Manga art sessions, craft and cooking activities designed to boost individual independence and fun!
For more information about IMPACT’s support services, call 4153 4233.