Jason is an energetic and enduring example of just how The Disability Trust’s programs can help people live their life to the fullest.
He started participating in programs as a shy teenager way back in 1995 but has grown into a confident member of the community who combines a part-time job four days a week with a busy schedule of activities with the Individualised Support and Community Access programs for people with disability.
Jason started out with basketball in the Jammers program when he was still in school and his mother, Vicki, said he still maintains a hectic schedule.
“He’s in drama, he goes to all the Dragons games, he basically goes to any Sunday Fundays, camps. He goes to a lot of things that without The Trust he wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do,” Vicki said.
“Without the Trust and I don’t say that lightly that not only for Jason but for myself, they’ve really been supportive through both our journeys and I don’t think we’d be where we are today without them, to be perfectly honest.”
Jason eagerly anticipates his weekly visits from Regan, a Disability Support Worker with The Disability Trust.
"I don’t think we’d be where we are today without the Trust."
She meets him at his Supported Independent Living house at Horsley and they head out into the Illawarra community for a range of activities from café visits, going to the movies and “friendly” games of mini-golf and tenpin bowling.
They have struck up a brilliant rapport. Jason feels comfortable around her and expresses this with a mixture of friendly greetings, high-fives and good-natured ribbing.
“I’ve been working with Jason for a few years now, we spend every Friday together. We go do really fun activities,” Regan said.
“Before he moved to a SIL house we were doing chores around the house, grocery shopping, I’d take him to medical appointments, whatever we like, really.
“Jason is so cheeky, it’s ridiculous. He definitely gives it to me, that’s for sure, but that’s the best part about working with him – there’s never a dull moment.
“He makes me smile, he makes me laugh. He’s just the best, I love spending time with him and wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Over the years he’s changed a lot. He’s definitely grown more confident towards me whenever I see him he’s opened up a lot as well.
“He was a very independent person as it was before I met him so he’s just kept that independence, grown in his confidence and he’s very outspoken, which is great.”
Regan has found her calling in the Disability Support Worker role, which she says is thoroughly rewarding.
“I help clients to meet their goals, whether that be in sports, drama, supported employment as well as individualised programs where I get to take them out, help them at home, do household tasks and so on,” she added.
“From that I get so much. I love my job, I get to spend my days with the best people who just bring up your spirits so much. It’s definitely a great career.”
Regan is one of many fully trained and engaging staff members who work for The Disability Trust to offer Individualised Supports and Community Access programs.
Services are available from south-western Sydney and the Sutherland Shire down to the Victorian border, inland to the ACT and Snowy Monaro, as well as in South-East Queensland.
The participant-centred approach focuses on tailoring support for each individual’s goals and the dedicated team offers comprehensive services, flexible daily plans, personal and complex care.
Enquire today to see how the Individualised Support and Community Access programs can benefit you.
