endeavour

Art and soul of a thriving business.

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Autumn 2014

As we face the challenges and opportunities ahead, I am delighted to say that our National Council is up and running.

Our members considered this option at our Annual General Meeting last November and voted to change the constitution in order to establish the National Council. Each Area Committee was asked to nominate two representatives to sit on the new body, which held its inaugural meeting last month.

National Council will open another channel of communication for Endeavour Foundation. Critically, it will also ensure that members and clients of any organisation which merges with Endeavour Foundation will not be at a disadvantage. They will have immediate representation on National Council.

Read more about the National Council on page 14.

As we grow through amalgamation, it is important that the people at the centre of what we do are heard with greater volume. After all, this is a central tenet of the National Disability Insurance Scheme. National Council will make this happen.

From the Chairman and CEO

Benefits of employment are criticalIt was extremely busy just before holiday season. Fortunately I had a chance for a break and am now back at work and genuinely excited about the future.

Last year we announced an expansion of Endeavour Foundation operations throughout Australia. As we expand, we will improve services and secure employment opportunities for our workforce.

We are the largest employer of people with an intellectual disability in Australia and we are determined to continue to offer diverse employment choices for people.

We must also pay fair wages. An assessment tool for setting wages must take into account all relevant factors when determining a fair wage for a person with a disability. This is the only way to sustain businesses and provide long term employment prospects.

The benefits of employment cannot be overstated. They contribute to a person’s sense of self-worth, their place in a community, their mental and physical health and increased independence both financially and socially. This will always be a priority for Endeavour Foundation for the people we support.

Hervey Bay people 3

Senator Fifield Q & A 5

In the community 6-7

Art works 8-9

Local hero 11

Lifestyle solutions 13

Grant Murdoch Chairman

David Barbagallo CEO

We would love to hear your comments, thoughts, reactions and ideas. Phone: 07 3908 7138 | Email: newsletters@endeavour.com.au Mail: Newsletter, PO Box 3555, Tingalpa DC QLD 4173 If you no longer wish to receive this publication please call 1800 63 40 40.

Keep in touch with us at facebook.com/endeavourfoundation

Find us on twitter @endeavourf

National Council for a greater voice

Your comments“I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the constant support and encouragement of Endeavour Foundation.” – Nola

“Hope your organisation grows to include the support of those in VIC and becomes a national organisation to support all Australians with a disability.” – Vezire

“This 500km Team Endurance Relay was number 13 for me and they just seem to get better each year.” – John

“Thanks to @endeavourf providing their picking, packing and warehousing services for the Good Gift Shop. You’re doing an amazing job!” – @SocialTradersAU

“@endeavourf a big congratulations to all your Numeracy and Literacy graduates! Was a fantastic program with enthusiastic students!” – @SQIT_chatter

“Thanks to @endeavourf for excellent contribution to Nat Disability Alliance e-news re workforce development and NDIS.” – @NDCAlliance

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1. Diane Jobson displays her creative talents at a craft class.

2. James Bulic with his TAFE certificate after completing a course.

3. The team at the Endeavour Foundation Recycled Clothing store includes (left to right) Sondya Fenton, Mandy Salata, Mary Ryan, Dianne Lord, Linda Kinter.

4. Bridgette Stagg chose to participate in the Hervey Bay City Council Community Environment Program.

5. Russell Oberhardt has chosen to volunteer at a major store.

6. John Paul Tanerau using the exercise equipment on the esplanade.

7. Photographer Mark Farrell and stunning pictures.

8. Joe Squires making a smoothie on the Fender Blender bike for International Day of People With Disability.

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Around our regions

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“I wanted to do the Certificate II from the beginning because it was a challenge,” said Davina Wilson.The bright and bubbly 29-year-old recently graduated from Endeavour Foundation’s Latch-On® program in Windsor, Brisbane, with a Certificate II in Literacy and Technology.

“Graduation was really good,” she said. “My family came and they cheered. I introduced some of our past, present

and future students to the audience – and I felt confident.”

Davina thoroughly enjoyed her time at Latch-On®.

“I got support from my classmates and teachers and it was fun,” she said. “I learnt lots of skills – I got better at using technology. And I liked spending time with my friends.”

Davina is now enrolled in Endeavour Foundation’s Education and Lifestyle Program (ELP) and is keen to secure employment in the future. “I’d like to work in an office, or in fashion,” she explained. “I like learning new techniques.”

Cassandra Bonomo (21), who has also completed her second year of Latch-On® at Windsor, gave the graduation celebrations a big thumbs-up too. “It was good – I was happy,” she said. “Mum, Dad and my sister were there.”

Cassie reckons attending Latch-On® has made her more confident – so much so that she made a speech at her graduation.

She decided to return for the optional third year of Latch-On®, where her favourite activities include typing, writing, Hot Seat and spending time with her friends.

“I’d like to learn more about calendars – and I want to get a job after Latch-On®,” Cassie said.

In Bundaberg, Carol-Anne Flett attended a Celebration of Achievement luncheon with fellow students and her mum and brother after completing her first year at Latch-On®.

“I loved it,” she said.

With her second-year studies well underway, Carol-Anne says she’s really enjoying the course and is determined to improve her literacy skills. “I love talking to my friends in Hot Seat, typing and writing,” she said.

“In the future I would like to be able to read recipes and I would also like to work with horses.”

Read more about Latch-On® on page 15.

Graduationjoy

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Endeavour Foundation is embarking on a training program to broaden the workplace skills and opportunities for supported employees.This follows on from last year’s Certificate II in Workplace Practice which covered some key employment practices and was completed by 26 employees. The Business Employment Unit and Endeavour Business College are designing the course and aim to start delivering it by the middle of the year.

Winners: The Redcliffe business service team received their certificates on Melbourne Cup day (hence the fascinators and hats!).

They will use the Certificates I and II foundation skills courses, which concentrate on up-skilling people in basic work practices, as well as offering fundamental training in numeracy and literacy. They hope to align people’s skills and

areas of work to the relevant course. This is in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Long term, the aim is to ensure as many people as possible have the option to complete a Certificate III, opening up the possibility of courses in warehousing, food packaging and food preparation in future.

The Geebung business service in Brisbane and the Burleigh Heads commercial enterprise on the Gold Coast will be the roll-out sites.

Business Employment Manager, Angela Burdon, says the future is exciting. “We are designing these courses very carefully so that employees can have greater opportunities and choice,” Ms Burdon said. “It is important to us that people with a disability can have more than employment at our business services, and these courses will offer training and up-skilling so that people can progress during their working life.

“We were delighted that so many people successfully completed the Certificate II last year and this is the next logical step.

“We want to make sure that more than 50 per cent of supported employees have

a qualification by the end of 2015. We are very excited by the possibilities in front of us.”

Once the course is finalised and agreed, it will be trained in-house through the Training and Development Officer at each service. The on-site trainers will be assisted and supported by the Business Employment Unit and Endeavour Business College.

Other courses will be considered by Endeavour Foundation depending on what is available or coming into scope.

forOpportunitiessupported employees

Davina Wilson

Cassandra Bonomo

In the first three months of the scheme more than 1,000 people had plans in place, with another 1,000 in progress. The Agency

now has seven offices in four trial sites. Participants in the trial sites have met with NDIS Agency staff to discuss their goals for participation, and what supports they need to achieve those goals and participate in daily life. Already, we are seeing these plans changing people’s lives, simply by providing reasonable and necessary supports on an individual basis.

Is the NDIS on track?

We have found that it is taking longer to complete participants’ plans than was anticipated. We have also found that

demand is greater and package costs are coming out higher than was estimated in the agreements signed between the Commonwealth and the states and territories to establish the NDIS. These are still early trends. Everything I do when it comes to the NDIS is to ensure that this life-changing reform will stand the test of time.

What do you consider to be the main issues or challenges for NDIS implementation?

It’s still early days. We’ve only received the first quarter results of the trial sites, which showed package costs are higher than

anticipated and demand greater. These results are being examined. The NDIS is a joint venture between the Commonwealth, states and territories, and all governments are committed to ensuring that the Australians the scheme is designed for will receive the reasonable and necessary support to which they are entitled.

Will the rising cost estimates for the NDIS affect the level of support which will be made available to individuals with a disability?

I think it is important to note that the NDIS is not designed to provide direct support for all Australians with disability. On some measures,

there are over four million Australians with some form of disability. The NDIS will provide an individualised package comprised of things such as aids, equipment, personal attendant care and other non-income supports to around 460,000 Australians with significant non-age related disabilities.

Do you think the NDIS will be able to support everyone who needs support?

Like other NFP service providers, Endeavour Foundation is working to be prepared for an NDIS future. What does the government expect of an organisation like ours?

I believe these changes will empower the sector to become more responsive to the needs and goals of the individuals they

serve. I have confidence that the disability sector will embrace the opportunities unleashed by the NDIS to build their capacities, harness new technologies and find creative ways to meet the needs of Australians with disability.

For people with a disability who don’t live in a launch site, how can they best prepare for the full implementation of the NDIS?

Eligible NDIS participants outside of current trial sites can begin to think about what elements of an individualised package can help

them achieve their personal goals, such as improved social and economic participation. Are there certain aids or equipment that would help them better participate in the workplace? Is there someone who provides informal unpaid care who would benefit from respite? These are the types of questions they should consider ahead of their initial meetings with NDIS planners.

When I became Shadow Minister four years ago, I think I was typical of people who assume front bench

responsibility for disability in not having had much of an exposure to Australians with disability. I had assumed, like so many, that people pay their taxes and that if you had a disability you got what you needed. I couldn’t have been more wrong. It wasn’t until I assumed responsibility for disability for the Coalition that the scales fell from my eyes and I realised that the system of support for people with disability in Australia was broken.

How would you describe your time in office, and in the role of Assistant Minister for Social Services?

Absolutely. Upon election to Government I indicated to Prime Minister Abbott I was keen to stay in the role. He

agreed. Unfortunately for the disability sector, the experience in this area has long been that no sooner has a new frontbencher been trained up by people with disability and their families, than they are moved to another portfolio. So I thought one of the contributions I could make was to offer continuity to the sector by staying in the role. I believe this role is probably the most significant I will hold in public life. I can’t think of another area that has the potential to improve the quality of life of so many Australians.

Were you keen to continue with the disability portfolio in government, having been the Shadow Minister?

Being a minister doesn’t allow much spare time for hobbies! Over the summer break I’ve enjoyed following the Australian

Open tennis pretty closely and spending time with my family.

Do you have a hobby or habit that helps you to stay energised?

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Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield is Assistant Minister for Social Services in the Federal Government. He is responsible for the future of disability services, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme. He took time out from his busy schedule to engage in a Q and A session with One Endeavour magazine.Q Aand

Community Solutions has been an innovative service organisation for more than 20 years. Nineteen sites in Queensland from Moreton Bay in the south to Bowen in the north, deliver diverse support, employment, health and wellbeing, and youth services.

It empowers as many as 10,000 people to fulfil their potential through employment and disability support, youth engagement and on-street safety net programs.

Reflecting on the organisation’s humble beginnings, founder and Managing Director David Curd says Community Solutions started when a group of committed volunteers, consisting of government workers, police, service clubs and business people, united to tackle drug use among young people.

“This group became the Sunshine Coast Community Drug Awareness Network, and for seven years it developed a range of innovative projects to address the risks and harms associated with Schoolies Week, public intoxication, drink driving and parent education,” Mr Curd said.

“The success of this volunteer group, who largely raised their own funds, led to a commitment of State Government funding, which was the catalyst for the creation of Community Solutions.

“As with most organisations, Community Solutions started with a single line of service but it identified that a continuum of diverse services would be beneficial for individuals and families. This has been a critical success factor in the growth and development of the organisation.

“This innovation, entrepreneurism and contemporary thinking have remained a key

part of our organisation’s DNA. This is largely due to directors, management and staff who are always willing to take a positive approach and consider a range of strategic options when confronted with challenges.”

This attitude has led to Community Solutions engaging in a number of amalgamations to remain sustainable in a rapidly changing environment.

The 2009 merger with Rockhampton-based disability employment service provider, Community Employment Options, more than doubled the size of the organisation. It opened the door for an integrated and holistic model to support people facing barriers into employment.

Amalgamations with North Queensland-based community service organisations Compass Whitsundays, Pioneer Employment Service, and Bay Support Services Group in 2011-12 forged a path into home and aged care, respite and disability services, and additional disability employment services.

Most recently, Community Solutions amalgamated with Rockhampton disability support provider Capricornia Respite Care Association (CRCA). “Community Solutions has always had the ability to look into the future, identify potential risks and opportunities, and make governance and services changes accordingly,” Mr Curd said.

“Most importantly, our culture embraces change, is focussed on individuals and values the concept of the team.

“From the very first discussion with Endeavour Foundation, there has been a great sense of excitement and motivation, due to the profound

potential of bringing together the relative strengths and resources of like-minded organisations.”

Endeavour Foundation CEO, David Barbagallo, agrees. “The close alignment of our values, vision and aspirations makes our organisations well suited to partner together,” Mr Barbagallo said.

David Curd says the shared goals will ensure better outcomes for the people we support.

“We share a common and optimistic view of the future, where people have the opportunity to choose and access a quality provider which can offer services tailored to their circumstance,” he said.

“This is not about becoming big, but ensuring our relevance, effectiveness and ability to support individuals, families and communities.”

Solutions for a

community

Proud artists: Community Solutions’ Circles of Support – Youth participants, Sean Lander-Watts (left) and Mason Stoakes, with the mural they painted at the Belli Park Rural Fire Station.

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Being there: Lyn and Don Fairclough are supported by Community Solutions’ Grandparents As Parents (GAP) program to raise grandson Nick.

For the hundreds of Sunshine Coast residents putting their retirement on hold to raise their grandchildren, the Grandparents As Parents (GAP) program provides not only a support service, but a lifeline.This program, delivered by Community Solutions, assists the inspiring people who are resuming their parenting role at a time of life when they thought those days were behind them. They are taking on the care of grandchildren whose parents are unable to because of a range of issues such as substance abuse, neglect, mental illness, criminal activity, or a death in the family.

More than 85 families on the Sunshine Coast – that’s 123 grandparents and 145 grandchildren – are currently engaged with the GAP program. Participants range in age from 82 years to just 18 months, with one grandparent couple caring for seven children under the age of 11.

For these families, GAP provides ongoing personal support. This is through home visits, monthly meetings, recreational activities, support networks, practical assistance and, perhaps most importantly of all, the opportunity to form meaningful and lasting friendships.

The program enables families to face difficult situations together, in a non-judgmental and protective environment.

The life of a grandparent carer can be extremely difficult, and is often complicated by behavioural challenges, custodial matters, or grief. The concern for their grandchildren’s future should their own health deteriorate brings further anxiety.

Furthermore, many of the families registered with the GAP program go without financial support or respite. This leaves the grandparents – many of them retirees – paying the bills while on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A number of Sunshine Coast-based organisations provide immense support for the program, through the donation of food hampers, Christmas baskets, clothing and household items, home and backyard blitz days, and home cooked meals. The families themselves take the support to another level by recycling unused items, and even storing clothing and furniture to pass on to new families entering the program.

Taking a break: GAP participants (left to right) Kay Kelly, Donna Hammett (Program Coordinator), Keith Maher, Lyn-Marie Hayman-Rubach and Lyn Fairclough enjoy the fresh produce in the Eastbank Edible Garden on the Sunshine Coast. Photo courtesy of Noosa News. endeavour | 7

In 2005, Nick was living with his mother to the west of Brisbane, while Lyn and Don Fairclough enjoyed a quiet lifestyle on the Sunshine Coast.

However, when mental illness led Nick’s mother into a dangerous situation, their worlds changed dramatically. Her relationship with Lyn and Don’s son broke down, but the grandparents were the first to support the young child. They brought him back to their home and offered him shelter, safety and love.

Seven years on, Lyn and Don remain Nick’s primary carers. Despite their respectable age, financial limitations, and Don’s ailing health, they are there for him.

Lyn says that the Grandparents As Parents program provides much-needed support.

“This is not an easy road to hoe,” she said.

“If it wasn’t for GAP I don’t know what we’d do. It provides us with sanity and friendship. When you inherit a grandchild, your friends scatter because they are not used to having children around.

“Now our friends are in GAP. We go on holidays with friends from GAP, because we all understand each other without judgement. We get trust and understanding.”

“ ...when you inherit a grandchild your friends scatter”

Being there is important for

Grandparents filling thegap

QArt offers paintings, ceramics, jewellery, cards and gifts. Commissions are accepted. Check out QArt Gallery & Gifts at www.vatmiartanddesign.com.au | Visit the studio at 188 High Street, Kew, Melbourne VIC 3101 | Phone: 03 9852 7798

The QArt team includes (left to right) Sonja Kan, Jan Rowlinson, Tiffany McBroom, Ayaka Soga, Kevin Keane, Kitty Yiu, Reeve King, Steven

Wears, Holly Walton, Miranda Millane, Ashlea Hill, Ralph Dawson.

QArt is a busy studio and gallery which is thriving as part of the Melbourne arts scene. It has come a long way in little more than 20 years, and such is its pool of talented artists and burgeoning reputation that it is set to go even further.

QArt operates as an Australian Disability Enterprise with employment, mentoring and training for 15 artists. They are not hobby artists, but professionals employed in a commercially-viable studio who must meet certain criteria to obtain employment.

The artists must show a steady improvement in skill levels and produce work which can be sold in the retail outlet called QArt Gallery and Gifts. The individual pieces of art work are also the basis for mass-produced products such as greeting cards, aprons, tea towels, limited edition prints and various designer home wares which are sold to businesses directly and to the public through the shop and website.

QArt started as a day program at the Hamer Centre on the Kew residential services and Kew Cottages site. It merged with VATMI six years ago and is now under the umbrella of Endeavour Foundation.

The studio is run by artist David Davies who assists with training, supporting and teaching new skills. He ensures that the art is good enough to meet the demands of the Gallery.

The approach works according to artist, Jarrod Wendt. “I only did ceramics before I came to work here. I have learnt to paint and draw and I have new friends and independence,” Jarrod said.

Fellow artist, Kitty Yiu, agrees that QArt is supporting her development as a professional.

“I have been here for six years and have learnt so many new skills,” she said. “I can use my imagination to express what’s inside me, as well as draw nature.”

The manager of QArt is Jan Rowlinson, who enjoys every day at work. “This is a very happy place and is a typical art studio – messy, lots of paint, paper, pencils and brushes all over the place,” Ms Rowlinson said.

“We work hard but in a relaxed way, in a friendly but inspiring atmosphere. We set a very high standard. We are always looking at what is new, trendy but unusual.”

QArt hosts two major exhibitions each year, in July and December, produces Christmas cards for many politicians, and visitors have included the outgoing Governor-General, the Honourable Quentin Bryce.

QArt’s emergence as a flourishing art house is because it complements its forward-thinking outlook by embracing the past.

“We are successful because we are part of the community and we love visitors in the studio,“ Ms Rowlinson said. “We are so proud of what we do.”

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The of successart

“ I have lots of friends here. I love coming to

work. I have learnt how to paint and draw.”

– Tiffany McBroom

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1. Holly Walton completes a fabulous jug.

2. Steven Wears displays a new work.

3. Reeve King working on the latest collection.

4. Q Artists (left to right) Sonja Kan, Kitty Yiu, Tiffany McBroom, Ashlea Hill and Tara Wood.

5. Ayaka Soga works on a canvas.

6. Miranda Millane and festive decorations.

7. Kevin Keane (left) and John Bates with the outgoing Governor-General, Quentin Bryce.

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“It is an opportunity to express my creativity in a joyful and meaningful

environment.”

– Reeve King

“ I like working here because of the people.

They are good company. I work hard and do my

best every day.”

– Ralph Dawson

At home in the

studioTara Wood joined QArt on a work experience program and hasn’t looked back. The talented artist is now employed in the studio, and is developing her own niche and style. She draws in watercolour pencil on canvas and then adds water to create soft, fabric-like art. Her work often looks like a fine tapestry. She has produced several whimsical works depicting birds. “Working in the studio is good for me,” Tara said. “I don’t want to be bored at home. Instead, I am learning to be an artist and I like to work.” Tara sets very high standards for herself and, like all artists, hates making mistakes. She also helps to create the buzz at work. “I have new friends and everyone here is nice to me,” she said. Tara also enjoys swapping the art studio for the dance studio. She is a member of e.motion 21 which is a dance and fitness program for young adults with Down syndrome.

Tara Wood has developed her own art style in the studio

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Tribute Terry LynchTerry Lynch, who has passed away at the age of 81, was a great champion of Endeavour Foundation. Terry, who lived in the historic Queensland city of Maryborough all of his life, had a great social conscience and was regarded as a ‘people person’. He made others feel comfortable in his company and was always ready to listen.

He served on Endeavour Foundation’s local Area Committee as a chairman and member for a decade. His insight and ability to raise intelligent issues were invaluable to the organisation. He was also involved with St Vincent de Paul and Lifeline.

He had many talents including that as an artist. His portrait of another great Endeavour Foundation supporter, Mervyn Whittaker, appeared in the spring 2013 issue of One Endeavour.

Terry and his wife Rita had six children, two of whom are employed at Endeavour Foundation’s business service in Maryborough. He had an excellent rapport with everyone at the site, and his humour would often leave the staff laughing at the end of a meeting or visit.

Terry cared, and he will be missed by everyone at Endeavour Foundation.

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toField of

Rugby league supporters in North Queensland who access Endeavour Foundation services will have the opportunity to watch the their favourite players up close this season thanks to the North Queensland Cowboys’ Field of Dreams program.

The Cowboys have chosen Endeavour Foundation as one of four organisations to partner with a community-minded sponsor. Our partner is Southern Cross Media (4TO and HOTFM) which will donate 30 tickets for each game.

As a result, local supporters will be able to enjoy the big match action live when the Cowboys play the Warriors later this month, the Eels in April, and the Tigers in August.

North Queensland Business Development Manager, Verena Coombe, says it is a fantastic opportunity.

“This is a great community initiative of The Cowboys. We are excited to be named a Charity of Choice and appreciate the opportunity to be partnered with Southern Cross Media for the 2014 season,” Ms Coombe said.

dreams

Our ‘green’ credentials continue to burgeon with the successful tender for a Gold Coast City Council contract.The Business Solutions team has secured the contract to provide recycling services at the new Reedy Creek Resource Recovery Centre. An on-site tip shop will operate alongside the recovery facilities.

The site will operate for seven days a week including public holidays. It will employ approximately 20 staff, including 10 supported employees, plus volunteers.

The Reedy Creek venture is the latest addition to Endeavour Foundation’s group of recycling enterprises.

It is similar to the Molendinar Waste and Recycling Centre initiative, also on the Gold Coast, which sends good quality items which were destined to become landfill to the Southport Tip Shop.

Endeavour Foundation works with the Sunshine Coast Council at the Buderim Resource Recovery Centre and tip shop, the Brisbane City Council with the Geebung and Archerfield tip shops, and the Southern Downs Council for the resource recovery

and tip shops in Warwick and Stanthorpe

We also provide e waste (electronic waste recycling services) at our business sites in Redcliffe, Townsville and Southport.

Commercial manager Nick Hully says Endeavour Foundation has a strong recycling portfolio.

“These are exciting times for the recycling industry and our operations continue to help the environment and, most importantly, support people with a disability,” he said.

Big deal: The massive Reedy Creek site will accommodate a resource recovery centre and tip shop.

Leading the waygreen

News in

Peter Firth, Michael McCarthy, Robert Visini and Drew Anderson, who cycle to work at the Townsville business service, each received a certificate after completing an AustCycle Skills course.

Seven Hills employee, Emma Breen, took part in a promotional film at her local health and fitness club in Sydney.

Learning & Lifestyle in Mackay was given an iPad donated by Canegrowers Mackay and Mortgage Choice.

Our business service at Wacol to the west of Brisbane hosted Terri, Bindi, and Robert Irwin plus some snakes, lizards and tarantulas from Australia Zoo.

People who access Learning & Lifestyle at Lawnton to the north of Brisbane made and donated two fabulous blankets and have been volunteering at Kumbartcho Environmental Sanctuary.

Visit us on facebook to find out more: facebook.com/endeavourfoundation

Sarah Wildermuth wearing her collection of swimming medals

Preparations are well underway for the tenth Special Olympics National Summer Games in Melbourne in October, and Endeavour Foundation employees will be among the athletes.Jay Nardi, who is employed at the Geebung business service in Brisbane, and Adam Knust, who works at our commercial enterprise in Gladstone, have been called up to represent their state as part of the football squad. They are two of the 202 sportsmen and women selected for Queensland representative honours.

More than 1,000 athletes will compete in 16 sports during the Games, which will be the biggest event hosted by Special Olympics Australia. It will also be the trials for the Australian team for next year’s Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles.

Adam Knust is something of an all-rounder as he represented Australia in swimming at the inaugural Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games in Newcastle, New South Wales. He competed in freestyle, breaststroke and the relays, winning a swimming gold medal in the 100 metres breaststroke.

Other athletes who took part in the Asia Pacific Games with a connection to Endeavour Foundation include Sarah Wildermuth, Sally McKenzie and Ashley Parrott.

Sarah, who works at the Redcliffe business service to the south of the Sunshine Coast, won swimming medals including a gold medal in the 200 metres freestyle. Sally, who accesses Wallace Park Learning & Lifestyle in Noosaville, is a ten pin bowler and won two gold medals in the women’s pairs and team event. Ashley, an employee at our Bundaberg business site, won two table tennis gold medals in the men’s singles and mixed doubles.

Roll offor Olympians

Seven Hills business service

The Seven Hills business service in western Sydney was opened in 1979.

It was one of three business sites in Sydney which were acquired by Endeavour Foundation from Cumberland Industries in 2009 in order to provide job security for people with a disability.

There are 105 employees at Seven Hills.

The team provides packaging solutions for the pharmaceutical industry.

The employees pack an average of 200,000 bottles of tablets and 990,000 blister packs of tablets every month.

Thanks to this amazing work, the commercial enterprise has a very loyal customer base.

The inaugural New South Wales Great Endeavour Rally in October last year raised funds towards the expansion of the Seven Hills site.

the facts

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Local Cecil Cleary

Parents get involved in their children’s weekend hobbies to a greater or lesser extent. And then some parents are like Cecil Cleary, who plays a key role and can’t do enough to support his son.During the week, Cecil works as the forklift driver at the Seven Hills business service in Sydney where he has been employed for almost 20 years. Then on Saturdays he spends the day with the Dundas Valley Junior Rugby Union team, participating in a variety of roles as an assistant manager.

“I help to drive the kids to the games and back afterwards, and set up the ground for each match,” Cecil said. “It takes up most of the Saturday and I enjoy it.”

This is Cecil’s fourth year in the position. He started in order to support his son when he first started playing with the team.

“My son was very shy at the beginning so I started helping,” he said. “Other parents help out, too.”

Now, Cecil is an important member of the coaching staff and the team has a great time. “They love it!” he said.

Adam Knust is a talented

swimmer and footballer

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“ One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.”

– William Shakespeare

Surfing, gardening, fishing and making friends – it’s certainly a busy agenda for people attending Kawana Learning & Lifestyle (L&L), which was recently set up on the shores of Lake Kawana on the Sunshine Coast. Having relocated from Kunda Park, Support and Operations Manager Joel McLaren is pleased that the move has created natural opportunities for interactions with other members of the community.

Now the L&L is in a building alongside local community groups, Joel says the shared amenities and proximity to other organisations allow for interactions on an everyday basis, and readymade opportunities to get to know new people.

“We have easy access to the community here with great public transport, along with the

chance to do water sports on the Lake and community gardening in the Eastbank Edible Garden,” Joel said.

While a change of location often causes a few hiccups, Joel says the transition generally went well and has created a positive change for people involved in Kawana L&L.

After the move, Joel and the team held a choice forum, displaying a large number of possible activities with a picture to aid understanding. People were then able to discuss the options and choose what they wanted to be involved with in their new location.

A number of people have been involved in surfing lessons, even learning how surfboards are made. Soon people will also be able to try their hand at stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking on the lake.

Sandy Ritchie is such a good surfer and swimmer that the surf school instructor

has dubbed him “tuna”. Sandy has drawn a picture of himself surfing and is a regular in the L&L fishing club. On the day he was interviewed by One Endeavour, Sandy had been ten pin bowling before touring the Edible Garden nearby. Sandy says he enjoys avocadoes and would like to grow some.

However it’s not all about outdoor sports for Janine Mitchell. Asked whether she likes the new location, Janine says there is nothing at all that needs to be changed about it – everything is good. Janine nominates the Companions program as her favourite activity, held at a local community hall where people from various community groups join together in social activities such as bingo and morning tea. Janine is always keen to assist some of the older people who are part of the Companions group; and lunch at the nearby Kawana Bowls Club also rates high on her list of things to do.

Fifty years ago this year, the organisation which went on to become Endeavour Foundation started supporting people with a disability on the Sunshine Coast.Jim Dall and Al Clark arranged the inaugural meeting for parents of children with a disability in Nambour. It was moved from the Council Chambers to the local Shire Hall due to the overwhelming response.

This led to the establishment of our first education setting on the Sunshine Coast in 1964, a school which was held at a rented CWA hall in Nambour.

Thanks to those determined and forward-thinking people, Endeavour Foundation has a strong presence on the Sunshine Coast. There are now 24 services supporting

138 people with a disability. Options include Learning & Lifestyles, accommodation services, in-home support, respite and post-school services.

Also on the Sunshine Coast, Endeavour Foundation employs 82 people with a disability at the business service at Maroochydore. There are nine Endeavour Foundation Recycled Clothing stores.

Towards the end of last year, two houses for people with a disability were opened in Pelican Waters. Built through our ‘At Home With Choices’ construction program, four people will live with greater independence and choice in each modern house.

Congratulations on the golden anniversary to everyone past and present on the Sunshine Coast.

Celebrating 50 years on the

On the move to

On top of the world: Melanie Schlaeger and instructor on her leap of faith.

– William Shakespeare

Lifestyle Solutions was established in 2001 by a group of inspired people with a commitment to providing individualised support for people with a disability. From its base in Newcastle, New South Wales, it has grown to become one of Australia’s key innovators in community services. It makes sense for the two organisations to discuss amalgamation.

Lifestyle Solutions offers a diverse range of supports to more than 1,000 people with a disability, as well as children and young people in Out of Home Care and Foster Care.

Like Endeavour Foundation, Lifestyle Solutions has an unwavering commitment to delivering person-centred support as underlined by its founder and Managing Director, David Hogg.

“To be truly person-centred we need to plan with our imagination firing, ensure our support is enabling and not controlling, challenge the stereotypes, set aside our own ideas and listen, learn and respond to all those around us,” Mr Hogg said. “This allows us to think beyond the traditional models of support and encourage the people we support to dream and strive for their vision. Every person is entitled to a life of possibility and opportunity.”

Lifestyle Solutions pioneered the development of the self-managed model of support in

New South Wales. It continues to lead the way in providing quality, flexible and creative support for people with a disability, supporting more than 600 people in individual or self-managed packages in NSW alone.

Since July 2013, Lifestyle Solutions has gained significant experience in the provision of disability services in an NDIS trial site. It provides strategic input to the evolution of the scheme.

Reforms in Out of Home Care continue, and Lifestyle

Solutions has expanded its provision of support.

This resulted in a number of Foster Care

placements in NSW.

The future will continue to be

shaped by challenges and change. An

amalgamation between Lifestyle Solutions and

Endeavour Foundation would combine collective resources,

services, people and aspirations to create an even more flexible, innovative and sustainable organisation .

A self-directed partnership with Lifestyle Solutions means that people can design and implement a support system which reflects their own choices. Melanie Schlaeger details her experience.

“Skydiving has been an ambition of mine for about three years. It was something I’d always talked about, but I’d never got around to it. So I gave myself a deadline to skydive by October.

Why did I choose skydiving? Well, jumping out of a plane is something that’s scary for everybody, regardless of disability.

I also felt that skydiving is symbolic for me because, as a 25-year-old, there are still many areas where I need to take a metaphoric leap of faith into the unknown. Life is complex for anyone and living with disability brings its own set of challenges to be considered and overcome.

Skydiving gave me an amazing sense of freedom. It was half an hour of my life where my disability didn’t matter. I didn’t need a wheelchair – and I did need the same help as anyone else who has the desire to jump out of a plane. It was just me in the clouds.

Skydiving reinforced for me that physical experiences can reignite your passion for overcoming obstacles. There’s a saying that I really believe in. I have it written on my wall to remind me daily: ‘Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.’”

endeavour | 13

Getting a

Endeavour Foundation continues to be in conversation with many like-minded organisations. Its relationship with Lifestyle Solutions is a prime example of potential strength in unity.

Partner with people to develop personalised and innovative support systems which reflect their individuality, needs, gifts and cultures.

Provide a range of support services for children and young people who, for various reasons, are unable to live with their own family

Social Enterprises exist to create opportunities for a myriad of people in our community who are challenged in finding and maintaining sustainable employment.

Disability Support

Child and Family Services

Social Enterprises

The

sky’sthe limit

14 | endeavour

At Endeavour Foundation’s Annual General Meeting on 22 November 2013, members voted on changes to the organisation’s constitution. One of the changes was to establish a National Council, marking a new day that will ensure our organisation is stronger and better-prepared for the future.

The National Council has been created to ensure members from every Endeavour Foundation Area Committee have a voice in our governance framework.

Each Area Committee has been asked to select and nominate two representatives to sit on the National Council.

Any new organisations that merge with Endeavour Foundation in the future will be able to have a role in

governance through representation on the National Council.

The National Council has a Charter describing its role. The Council will be a forum for stakeholders to review guidelines, processes, procedures and policies; and for discussion on issues relating to services and supports.

It will also assist the Board to monitor services and supports; educate, inform and provide feedback to stakeholders; and advance Endeavour Foundation’s public image.

The Council will also consider issues as requested by members at the Annual General Meeting.

Both the Board and Area Committees will continue to play an important role in the governance of the organisation.

Importantly, Area Committees will still be able to raise issues for consideration, as they have done in the past.

To find out more about Endeavour Foundation’s structure and revised constitution go to www.endeavour.com.au/our-endeavour-foundation/our-structure

in governance

National Council

Area Committees are an important part of the governance structure of Endeavour Foundation. By being involved in a local Area Committee, family members, carers and supporters can provide information and feedback in relation to local services. Area Committees are also active in educating the community about disability, raising the profile of the organisation, and raising funds to support the work of Endeavour Foundation. You can get in contact with the Area Committee Chair in your region to find out more.

Far North Queensland Brian Willis FNQAC@endeavour.com.au

North Queensland Brian Fanning NQAC@endeavour.com.au

Central Queensland Leon Powell CQAC@endeavour.com.au

Wide Bay Gerry Crotty WBAC@endeavour.com.au

Moreton – Sunshine Coast Peter Coleman M-SCAC@endeavour.com.au

Brisbane Metropolitan Scott Ellis BRISAC@endeavour.com.au

South East Queensland Bernie Scobie OAM SEAC@endeavour.com.au

South West Queensland Jason Lipp SWAC@endeavour.com.au

Sydney Kathy Breen SYDNEYAC@endeavour.com.au

Victoria Beverley Knowles VICAC@endeavour.com.au

Get

fuelled by

kingaroy fine foods

endeavour | 15

The pace of life in Kingaroy in the South Burnett shifted up a gear or two recently when the Great Endeavour One Day Rally rolled into town. More than 130 people showed up to put 48 cars through their paces on the 250km course before settling in at Kingaroy Cricket Club for a night of food and fun.The mouth-watering menu from Kingaroy Fine Foods featured curry, lasagne, salads, chicken fried rice, cakes and pastries. Not surprisingly, it received rave reviews from the crowd.

Catering for a huge group of hungry rally drivers was always going to be a challenge, so the Kingaroy Fine Foods team, led by manager Hazel Patterson, started their preparations well in advance.

“We did prep work on the Thursday for the curry and lasagne and vegetable prep for the salads on the Friday,” explained Andrew Simmons. “We were pretty well organised. We served more than 130 people – so there was a lot of washing up!”

Andrew’s usual work at Kingaroy Fine Foods involves preparing ingredients for jams and chutneys. He also assists with lunches and

catering and was delighted with the positive feedback from the One Day Rally diners.

“I have worked on a few events now and I am always pleased when people say the food was nice,” he said.

His colleague Andrew Swindale has worked in the catering kitchen for just over a year and was thrilled to be a part of the One Day Rally. “It made me feel pretty special,” he said.

“We made 12 large lasagnes for the meal as well as other food. Hazel taught me to make Bolognese sauce for the lasagne and on the night Bev taught me how to prepare the French bread sticks.

“There were heaps of people there – I loved it,” he said.

After graduating from Latch-On®, Rebecca has secured part-time employment with a supermarket, competed at the Special Olympics National Games in Melbourne last year, and embarked on her next challenge – learning to drive.

“My husband and I had always believed that self-confidence, self-esteem and resilience are such a big part of any child’s development and that was the focus for any pathway we chose for Rebecca,” shares Rebecca’s mum, Diane.

“I found Latch-On® for Rebecca as the next step after finishing school and it has been an invaluable pathway for Rebecca to continue her learning. She attended the program for three years and it has played an important role in her post-school journey.”

Endeavour Foundation’s unique Latch-On® program supports more than 40 young people with an intellectual disability to gain a nationally accredited qualification in literacy and technology.

The innovative program costs approximately $22,500 per student each year, requiring highly-specialised classrooms and equipment, and is funded through community donations.

Latch-On® is in four sites in Queensland and New South Wales and is one of many Endeavour Foundation programs which rely on donations. To donate, visit www.endeavourfoundation.com.au

Donate to make a

Andrew Swindale

Diane and Rebecca

Every donation provides an opportunity for people with a disability(All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.)

Please return to: C/- Philanthropy Department, Endeavour Foundation PO Box 3554 Tingalpa DC QLD 4173.

OR: Make a secure online donation at www.donate2endeavour.com.au

Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms / Name

Address

Postcode

Phone Email I prefer to be contacted by: email telephone text message mail Donation Type: single donation monthly donation

Donation Amount: I would like to donate (circle one): $100 $40 $80 $200 $500 $1000 other Payment Details: Please find enclosed my: cheque money orderor Please charge my credit card for the above amount: Visa MasterCard American Express

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Card Number: *Why is CCV important? To protect your personal information – your donation will be processed via a secure server which requires your CCV.

*CCV is required: You can usually find the CCV on the back of your card.

Emergency ContactsEmergency support

Commonwealth Respite & Carelink Centres 1800 052 222 (24 hours) Pre-register by phone to gain easier access to support

State Government Disability Services: Queensland 13 74 68 133 677 – TTY (hearing impaired) NSW Metro North (02) 9407 1855 Victoria 1800 783 783 Child Safety Services: Queensland 1800 177 135 (24 hours) New South Wales 132 111 (24 hours) Victoria 131 278 (24 hours) If you believe a child is in imminent danger, please contact the police on 000

Other useful contacts

Health Direct – health and hospital information 1800 022 222

Poisons Information Line 13 11 26

Ambulance, Fire, Police – life threatening emergencies 000 106 – TTY (hearing impaired) 112 – mobile

Alcohol and Drug Information Services 1800 422 599

In Queensland, short-term, one off disability support is also available to eligible people through the following local contacts:

Central Qld Suncare Community Services

(Wide Bay): (07) 4151 6400

Capricornia Respite Care Association

(Rockhampton): (07) 4930 7600

Central Highlands & Western Queensland

Family Support Association

(Emerald): (07) 4987 7933

Gladstone Community Linking Agency:

(07) 4972 8855

South West Qld ALARA (Ipswich): (07) 3817 0600

Breakaway Toowoomba: (07) 4639 5100

Brisbane FSG Australia: (07) 3274 3655

North Qld Endeavour Foundation: (07) 4729 6007

Far North Qld ARC: (07) 4046 3600

North Coast Suncare Community Services: 1800 052 222

South East Qld FSG Australia: (07) 5501 2400

Ability Care: (07) 3800 4577

If you have any questions please call 1800 800 585

Keep in touch with us at facebook.com/endeavourfoundation

Find us on twitter @endeavourf

Other useful contacts

Commonwealth Respite & Endeavour Foundation Disability Services 1800 ENDEAVOUR (1800 363 328)

MY VIEWScott ForrestLiving in my own house is great. I am more independent and I go out more. I used to live on Bribie Island but have bought a house in Caboolture, to the north of Brisbane. I didn’t go out much when I was on Bribie, but now I’m out with my mates at the local sports club or RSL Club, or I get on the train and go to the city or up to the Sunshine Coast. I’m only a five-minute walk to the train station so it’s much better. At home I cook, keep the house and garden tidy with a bit of support, go on the computer and listen to the radio. I like music from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, bands like The Beatles or the Beach Boys. I like a few from the 1980s, too. The new digital stations are great. I don’t stay in very often, though. In fact, I think the only time I stay in is if it’s raining!