Pam and Steve were both nominated in the Kawana Community Electorate Awards for their years of volunteering at STEPS. They both attended an awards ceremony and enjoyed morning tea at Talara Primary College and were presented their certificates by Jarrod Bleijie, MP State Member for Kawana.

Pam works in the STEPS Nursery and is now the longest serving nursery volunteer. She has been a huge asset to the nursery, particularly during staff shortages. During this time, she provided great support, both professionally and personally to the team. She is consistently going above and beyond what is expected and required of our volunteers and has built great relationships with other members of the community.

Steve is a valued long-term volunteer at STEPS. He donates his time and skills in the kitchen and supporting the café by cooking and preparing homemade items for the café and also for functions and events. Steve always goes above and beyond with his generosity and dedication, is a quiet achiever who never complains and is extremely reliable.

STEPS would not be the organisation we are today without the support and generosity of our volunteers. Thank you Pam, Steve and all our wonderful volunteers!

Looking for ways to give back to your community? Join the STEPS volunteer family and lend your skills to our range of programs.

Josh Hansen, Business Manager at STEPS Maroochydore, a hub for coordinating various mental health services on the Sunshine Coast, sheds light on the compelling reasons behind our commitment to fostering mental well-being within our work environment. 

With the average person spending one-third of their life, or about 100,000 hours, working, R U OK? Day becomes an ideal starting point for initiating these crucial conversations, nurturing a supportive and empathetic community for all. 

Join us in celebrating the incredible accomplishment of Nate Nelson, a remarkable 10-year-old with a heart of gold!

During this year’s Steps for STEPS, Nate raised an outstanding $3,281! Thanks to his determination and the generosity of his neighbours, friends, family, school community, and AFL club.

Nate completed the 20km walk from Maroochydore to Caloundra, all in the name of supporting STEPS Pathways College.

Walking alongside his amazing mum and the inspiring STEPS Pathways College students, Nate proved that age is no barrier when it comes to making a difference.

To learn more about our cause, please visit our website. Every donation counts!

Prima Commercial Fitouts has been a long-time supporter of STEPS, and their contribution over the years has given many students the opportunity to achieve a life of independence at STEPS Pathways College.

But while their generosity is greatly valued by us and our students, it’s their work to reduce costs from STEPS’ bottom line that deserves our heartfelt appreciation too.

You see, while STEPS Pathways College receives no government funding, many of STEPS’ other programs and services do.

As a not-for-profit organisation STEPS depends on government funding for programs such as disability employment services, and our important language, literacy, and numeracy programs.

The nature of this funding can mean a sudden change in which an organisation must quickly recruit staff and create workspaces to support new or expanded programs and services.

STEPS Managing Director Carmel Crouch says this type of change can be a costly burden on organizations like STEPS, but that’s where Prima has stepped in.

“We’ve worked with Prima Commercial Fitouts for years now, and in that time they have saved us huge amounts of money by redesigning our office spaces and classrooms to meet our changing demands”, Carmel said.

“If we had to move our offices every time we launched a new program or expanded the cost involved would be crippling”, she said.

Prima’s director Brendan Wavell-Smith said the years working with STEPS on the Sunshine Coast and around the country have given him insight into some of the challenges people with a disability face in daily life.

“It upsets me to see how hard it can be for people with a disability and the limited opportunities available to them”, Brendan said.

“That’s why I’m such a big supporter of STEPS.  I have seen firsthand the work they do and the impact it has on their clients and students”.

“And I’m absolutely honoured to be a part of such an innovative program like STEPS Pathways College, something that is going to actually change the future for these young people”.

A Special Offer for STEPS Supporters

As a special offer for supporters of STEPS Pathways College and the STEPS Grand Winter Ball, Prima Commercial Fitouts are offering a FREE Office Design Consultation.

To book your FREE Office Design Consultation email us at info@primacommercial.com.au and quote GWBPrima.

Tickets on sale now – STEPS Grand Winter Ball 2021, presented by Evans Long

Get ready! You’re invited to our most captivating night of the year…

Join STEPS Charity at the STEPS Grand Winter Ball 2021, presented by Evans Long on Saturday 24th July 2021.

The STEPS Grand Winter Ball is a night of glamour, standout entertainment, and feel-good fun which raises funds for the incredible STEPS Pathways College.

Opening in 2017, STEPS Pathways College offers a unique chance to young adults with a disability and autism to lead a life of their choice.

A highlight of the night is set to be the culinary experience presented by celebrity chef Alastair McLeod. Mr. McLeod is famed for his regular appearances on Ready Steady Cook and The Weekender, as well as his many years in Michelin listed restaurants across the globe.

Mr. McLeod has come on board to deliver some truly marvelous creations, specifically aiming to highlight spectacular local ingredients.

 About the College

An Australian first and world-leading model, STEPS Pathways College  provides young people with a disability and autism the opportunity to live brighter, more independent lives. The College has been changing the lives of young people throughout Australia and gives the students the option to study as boarding, day, or online student.

For over a year, Robyn has been volunteering every Wednesday at STEPS Pathways College and supporting young people with a disability and autism.

She loves working with the students and assisting them in developing skills so they can live more independently.

Robyn recently retired from a nursing career she loved and wanted a volunteer role that she felt had purpose.

“I’ve been nursing all my life, I left school when I was sixteen and started nursing,” she said.

When she thinks back to that time in her life of early adulthood, when she was first establishing her independence, she realises she had no idea about budgeting.

“We lived from fortnight to fortnight back in my early days of nursing.

“I didn’t learn to budget; we didn’t learn that at all,” she said.

In those early days she eventually had to teach herself how to budget and now has an appreciation for the hands-on, practical learning that is provided at the College.

In the classroom, she helps students understand the importance of budgeting and practical strategies for savings, which is a part of the College’s key areas of learning.

Robyn said she wanted to find a meaningful volunteer role where she felt she could make a difference, and she found that when she started working with the students.

“I learn things here.

“I love it, I love the students, the trainers are great, and I learn a lot here,” she said.

Robyn said she loves the students’ attitudes and the way they approach things.

“I’ve learnt how these students are so resilient and how they make friends with each other and they’re respectful of each other.

“I love how they text each other outside of class and they come into class and they are really pleased to see one another – I love that.

“The students let me share their world and they’re all so different,” she said.

Robyn said she is glad to be a part of the community at STEPS and recommends this role for anyone that is looking to give back.

“The people are lovely; they are really friendly.

“I got a little bit teary; STEPS had a morning tea for all the volunteers, and they gave us a bunch of flowers and a gift voucher and I was not expecting that.

“I was really blown away. People are so happy for you to be here.

“This is a role where they can go home at the end of the day and think to themselves ‘that was a good day,’” she said.  

STEP Pathways College

STEPS Pathways College provides a range of training programs that help young people with a disability and autism further develop skills for independent living. For enrolment information in the Boarding, Day, or Online program, please call 07 5458 3000 or email pathways@stepsgroup.com.au.

Volunteer with us

Inspired by our National Volunteer Week story? Contact us now to find out more about volunteer opportunities at STEPS Pathways College.  

He loves the outdoors and when he’s not camping or fishing, he works hard to support people with mental health issues get out and about in the community and reach their goals.

Get to know Josh, Manager for Mental Health Programs at STEPS Community Support.

Have you had any memorable moments at STEPS that stand out?

I have witnessed some amazing individual journeys of achievement over the years and being a part of those successes in some small way is always satisfying. The annual STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas Party always stands out as a favourite for me. To see the joy and excitement that event brings to the kids sums up why we do what we do at STEPS.

What made you want to work with STEPS? What attracted you to the role?

The values and culture at STEPS, that is what makes working here so great. It’s so worthwhile, being a part of an organisation that is built on integrity, respect, understanding and courage. When investing so much of my time and energy, I need to feel connected to the organisation and the people. That is why I have been a part of the STEPS team for so long, when you have a team of people who are engaged in and passionate about their work and who share a common purpose, that is when you achieve great results.

What is your favourite part of your job?

The people for sure! When working with people no two days are the same and I enjoy that. What is the most valuable thing you have learnt in your role? To never forget where you have come from, and to never stop listening and learning.

What do you think people enjoy most about STEPS?

I think people enjoy the flexibility to choose how their supports are delivered to them. STEPS prides itself on delivering services that are tailored to the needs of the individual.

Who are you happy to have met at STEPS? Why?

It is hard to pick just one person, when so many come to mind! From our Managing Director Carmel Crouch to our CEO Kerry Staines, and all our hands-on staff delivering our services, I am truly humbled and privileged to work with a team and an organisation who share such enthusiasm and passion for helping people.

The week acknowledges the important contributions people living with a disability make to our communities.

STEPS have a long history of providing a range of excellent services to support people living with disability and autism including fun group activities, one on one disability support services, and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Support Coordination.

Disability support workers are the backbone of STEPS Community Services, they provide daily support to their clients in their homes, as well as provide companionship and promote independence and community participation.

STEPS Community Services manager Josh Hansen is recruiting new support workers to join their Gympie team and believes the longevity of their staff speaks volumes about working with STEPS.

“STEPS very much lives and breathes by its values,” Mr Hansen said.

“We invest in our staff, and we listen to the needs of our participants, so we can be the provider of choice.

“We offer flexible working arrangements, salary packaging and a highly skilled and experienced team.

“It’s also a very secure industry to work in, the NDIS is the fastest growing sector, work force studies show our region is going to require around 5000-6000 full time equivalent staff to meet the demands of the NDIS.”

STEPS Pathways College also wants to help spread the message of this important week as they continue to further empower young people with disability, increase public awareness, and promote inclusion throughout the wider community through their Australian-first training college.

STEPS Pathways College based on the Sunshine Coast is continuing to teach the skills of independent living to young adults living with disability and autism and is now expanding to meet current demands for their revolutionary training model.

STEPS Group managing director Carmel Crouch, whose 48-year-old son with a disability is still living at home, said for her, this perspective has always been her driving force.

“This idea of the college comes very much from my personal point of view, I always thought there had to be some way we could make opportunities for young people with disabilities to become independent,” Ms Crouch said.

“We’re excited to announce we will have a new expansion built by November this year, to accommodate even more boarding students, and we’re looking to accommodate another 14 students, in a ready built complex soon.”

STEPS Pathways manager DJ McGlynn believes the growth of the STEPS Pathways College programs is a true testament to its success

“Every single element of our training program has an educational underpinning, we see it working everyday as we witness the confidence and capacity of our students grow,” Mr McGlynn said.

“I’m constantly surprised by how much a student can do when given the opportunity.

The college is best suited for young adults with intellectual disabilities, a simple suitability assessment process is completed as part of the application.

With disability touching the lives of most Queenslanders in some way, this week is an important celebration. To find out more call STEPS on (07) 5458 3000.

Caption: STEPS Community Services deliver a range of programs to support people living with disability – Tin Can Bay camp 2019.

So it’s safe to say that STEPS Community Services, disability support worker, Rick Conroy has ‘never worked a day’ in the last 24 years he’s been employed at STEPS.

Disability support workers are the back bone of STEPS Community Services, they provide daily support to their clients in their homes, as well as provide companionship and promote independence and community participation.

Rick is one of 14 children, and is a very caring and relaxed soul, who builds his professional relationships based on respect and a genuine consideration for his client’s entire wellbeing and quality of life.

“It’s a very rewarding job, I’ve seen Scott progress a really long way with his independence over the time I have worked with him, the work also gives me job security and a lot of flexibility,” Rick said.

“Scott now lives in his own home, he gets to some of his own appointments, and he loves his computers and gadgets.

“I’m not up with technology so he helps me, and we help each other,” Rick said.

“He’s come along in leaps in bounds over the years, he’s so capable in so many ways, and that’s what we’re here for, to help him live in the community and live his life,” Rick said.

Caption: David and Rick from STEPS Community Services with their client Scott.

STEPS Community Services manager Josh Hansen is recruiting new support workers to join their team and believes the longevity of their staff speaks volumes about working with STEPS.

“STEPS very much lives and breathes by its values,” Josh said.

“We invest in our staff, and we listen to the needs of our participants, so we can be the provider of choice.

“We offer flexible working arrangements, salary packaging and a highly skilled and experienced team.

“It’s also a very secure industry to work in, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the fastest growing sector, work force studies show our region is going to require around 5000-6000 full time equivalent staff to meet the demands of the NDIS.”

Scott says it’s not just day-to-day tasks Rick helps him with it’s getting out and having fun too.

“We went to the watch the State of Origin in Brisbane and we go to camps as well,” Scott said.

“The three-day STEPS’ camps are unreal, it’s just great to see everyone get out of routine and have some fun, Scott loves to take all his gadgets to camp too!” Rick said.

 When asked what makes a good support worker Ricks said it’s important to listen.

“Have a good ear, be easy going, and don’t judge people because everyone has a story.”

If you would like a rewarding career as a disability support worker with STEPS, call STEPS Staffing Solutions on 1300 110 444.

The night delivered a truly unique fundraising event with amazing hosts, Lincoln Lewis and Samantha Heathwood, and supported by a star-studded line up, including ARIA award winning pop group Sheppard, and Australia’s most loved artists – Anthony Callea, Tim Campbell, Paulini, Taylor Henderson together with special guests and a mega raffle, dance performances, trivia and more, to celebrate ability and inclusiveness even during a global pandemic.

The Ken Mills Toyota trivia quiz was a highlight of the night with Ken Mills Toyota ambassadors Maddy McAuliffe and Laura Scherian, who teamed up with event host Lincoln Lewis and the star of the show, STEPS Pathways College graduate Tom Amerena.

STEPS Charity executive manager Rebecca Whitehouse said the response to the evening was overwhelming.

“We were inundated with messages of support, images from our guests at home and most importantly pledges to support the expansion of the STEPS Pathways College,” Mrs Whitehouse said.

“The night exceeded our expectations and provided a such a great opportunity to reignite and support the events’ industry on the Sunshine Coast,” Mrs Whitehouse said.

STEPS Group managing director Carmel Crouch said they worked hard to diversify their offering to bring a unique fundraising event that was fantastic in so many ways.

“Thanks to the support of our wonderful partners, the event went full speed ahead, with a whole new spin, we have so many incredible, talented people to thank for making this happen!”

“It was a lot of fun to see this high tech event come together and to see so many messages of support from faces old and new was just wonderful.

“Due to Coronavirus restrictions we could not host our annual gala event, but we were determined to support the most vulnerable in our community and deliver the lifestyles they deserve,” Ms Crouch said.

“I want to thank everyone who shared the night with us, and for digging deep to help us raise important funds for STEPS Pathways College and families living with a disability in our community.”

“We are committed to raising the funds for the expansion of STEPS Pathways College, Australia’s first college teaching young adults the skills for an independent lifestyle,” Ms Crouch said.

The event showcased true community spirit with local restaurants helping out to deliver dinner to homes on the night.

It not only raised vital funds, it celebrated the students, families and a community of amazing people who so generously give to make this world a better place, by focussing on ability and not disability.

An Australian first, STEPS Pathways College provides young people with a disability the opportunity to live brighter, more independent lives through their unique, immersive training college. The expansion to the boarding college is now underway with new students soon to move in later in the year. Find out more by contacting our team today.

STEPS Charity are working hard to diversify their offering and bring a unique fundraising event in challenging times.

The STEPS Virtual Grand Winter Ball presented by BA Murphy Constructions will be a very special fundraising event supported by a star-studded line up, including ARIA award winning pop group Sheppard, and Australia’s most loved artists – Anthony Callea, Tim Campbell, Paulini, together with a mega raffle, dance performances, trivia and more, the virtual event will celebrate ability and inclusiveness even during a global pandemic.

STEPS Pathways College is changing lives for young Australians living with disability just like Tom Amerena, one of the first students to enrol at the college when it opened four years ago.

Now, he has embarked on the next chapter of his life, living independently in Melbourne, after graduating as part of the first cohort from the Sunshine Coast college last year.

Tom’s father Paul Amerena said since his son’s graduation, Tom has moved to Melbourne by himself to reach his goal of living independently and has not looked back.

“The college was the greatest thing that’s ever happened, the best thing for Tom, and the best thing for us as parents,” Mr Amerena said.

“Tom now lives independently, in an apartment in West Brunswick, has his 26 cousins close by that all visit him regularly, and he’s just having a ball.
“He’s so busy with activities, social clubs and of course his beloved AFL.

“We looked around for a long time when we were still living in Victoria for something like STEPS Pathways College, and there was just nothing like it around.

“We were so happy to find it here on the Sunshine Coast, it was the conduit that has enabled his independent lifestyle.

“Tom, as he said to me other day, he’s living the dream, the college has provided the independence that Tom deserves.

“Just because you have a disability it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have an independent lifestyle,” Mr Amerena said.

STEPS say they are constantly amazed at what students can do when given the opportunity.

All proceeds from the STEPS Virtual Grand Winter Ball raised will go to the extension of the STEPS Pathways College and building brighter futures.

STEPS are taking the bold move of hosting a virtual gala event. Bringing a star-studded line up, including ARIA award winning pop group Sheppard, one of Australia’s most loved and respected recording artists – Anthony Callea and the fabulous singer and actor Tim Campbell, the fabulous Paulini returns for a consecutive year, together with a mega raffles, dance performance by the Sunshine Dance Troupe, trivia and more to raise vital funds for young adults living with disability.

STEPS Group managing director Carmel Crouch said the event is set to be a fantastic night in so many ways and hopes that households across Australia buy a ticket for this truly unique experience.

“Due to Coronavirus restrictions we can’t host our annual black tie gala event this year, but we are determined to bring a night of entertainment and laughter to the homes of all Australians so we can continue to support the most vulnerable in our community and deliver the lifestyles they deserve,” Ms Crouch said.

“We are committed to raising the funds for the expansion of boarding college at STEPS Pathways College, Australia’s first college teaching young adults the skills for an independent lifestyle,” Ms Crouch said.

“Thanks to the support of our wonderful partners, the event’s going full speed ahead, with a whole new spin, we have so many incredible, talented people joining us on the night, and we invite everyone to join us!

“Tickets are very affordable and it’s a great way to support charity, have fun at home, dance the night away and enjoy this interactive experience,” Ms Crouch said.

The event showcases true community spirit, bringing together the generous business community with VIPS, dignitaries, families, supporters, students and volunteers for a night of entertainment and celebration.

The night will unite like-minded individuals who share a vision of creating brighter futures, who care, believe and invest in changing the landscape for Australian families living with disability, especially in tough times.

The Virtual Grand Winter Ball not only raises vital funds, it celebrates the students, families and a community of amazing people who so generously give to make this world a better place, by focussing on ability and not disability.

An Australian first, STEPS Pathways College provides young people with a disability the opportunity to live brighter, more independent lives through their unique, immersive training college.

Last year, Pathways College held its inaugural graduation, the first cohort graduated that day able to begin the rest of their lives with confidence, skills and independence, this year a new cohort of students are set to graduate, and the college has started building a new expansion to meet demands.

The two hour event starts from 7pm and is jam packed full of celebrity guests, performances, trivia and more.

The Fleet Office director Jim Lee along with Toyota dealership proprietor Brett Mills and Maleny Supa IGA owner Rob Outridge pulled their collective resources together to ensure local families won’t be going without some essential items this Easter. 

Fifty local families in need received a special care package full of essential household items – and a few Easter eggs – thanks to the collaborative efforts of three local business identities and STEPS. 

Mr Lee said he contacted STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch, to see how many families were in need due to the impact of the Covid-19 virus. 

“With the STEPS Autism Treehouse Trek for Autism postponed this year we wanted to do something practical to support local families who are in need,” Mr Lee said. 

“Unfortunately, there’s a lot of families doing it tough at the moment and the reasons why they are struggling has had a significant impact on me personally.  

“I reached out to my good mates in Brett Mills and Rob Outridge and together we came up with the care package idea. 

“Rob has been very generous with supplying the goods and Brett has enlisted his team, including Ken Mills Toyota ambassador Laura Scherian, to help deliver the items,” he said. 

STEPS Autism Treehouse charity manager Anne Nioa also rolled up her sleeves to help pack up the goods, as they were whisked away to families in need. 

“We know that in these extraordinary times it’s really important to help support the most vulnerable in our community, we’re absolutely blown away by the amazing efforts of Jim and his team,” Ms Nioa said. 

“It’s just great to see such positivity and kindness in our current climate, we really hope others will see this and be inspired to help too. 

“STEPS are remaining strong and we’ll keep on in delivering for our communities, but we are facing uncertain times, and we know how important it is to rally together to help in these times. 

Maleny IGA owner Rob Outridge said he got involved because STEPS is a well-known local charity, that does great work, and Jim is his good friend.

“Jim’s so generous, he wanted to pay for everything himself, and for us to make no discounts, what he doesn’t know when he gets the bill, we’ve applied some discounts, and we’re happy to do that: A it’s Jim and B: It’s STEPS,” Mr Outridge said.

Brett Mills said he’s holding onto all his staff, but he realised they’re entering a slow period due to coronavirus, so he reached out to STEPS to ask what they can do to help.

“I’m personally very happy to get out today in the sunshine, and to not have to think about much because it’s been fatiguing, for employers, employees and for everyone,” he said.

“It’s just nice to get out and do something that makes everyone feel good.”

Australian diamond netball player and Ken Mills Toyota ambassador Laura Scherian said she saw the opportunity to be able to get out and help those in need.

“Brett said he was doing the drive today and it was a perfect opportunity for me to jump in and be able to help out a bit,” she said.

“Obviously the world’s a bit of a strange place at the moment and everyone needs to help each other out in any way they can,” she said.

STEPS Charity encourage locals to continue to support their local charities to help the most vulnerable in the community, for more information contact our team today

STEPS are leaders in the charity space and have been supporting people with disabilities on the Coast for more than 30 years, but like all organisations within the charity and event sectors, they’re facing unprecedented times.

STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch said all charities are being hit hard by the impacts of Coronavirus, and calls out for locals not to forget about charities at this time.

“The world is experiencing a situation unlike anything we have seen in our lifetimes, the tragic loss of life and the far reaching economic implications this will have on our vulnerable communities is of great concern,” Ms Crouch said.

“We plan to remain strong, to continue to run our services to support families living with disability and autism, but it takes a massive amount of money to do this, and we are facing some very uncertain times.

“We are devastated that the cancellation of events will directly impact all charities’ abilities to deliver for our community.

“We have to raise the funds for our next expansion to the STEPS Pathways College, which will potentially double our capacity and provide even more places for people with a disability to learn to live and work independently,” she said.

STEPS Charity raises vital funds to support Caloundra’s STEPS Pathways College, Australia’s first college for young adults living with disability, to learn skills for independent living.

STEPS are relaunching their Workplace Giving Program, to raise the necessary funds to build the extension to the Pathways College, and say it’s an easy way for everyone to unite in these hard times to still support those who need it most, and give small, regular donations, that really go a long way.

“We are asking the Sunshine Coast community to come with us on this journey, in these extraordinary times, by committing to small, regular, tax deductible payments to make a real difference in the lives of people who face big challenges,” Ms Crouch said.

“In these difficult times the world is experiencing, we are thankful that we are surrounded by such a wonderful Sunshine Coast community, and we know that all charities are facing a similar fate.

“We want to spread the message that it is vital to continue to support all charities wherever possible, we know we are not in a unique position, there are many charities that need support,” she said.

Ms Crouch said Coronavirus will dramatically affect the ability of all charities to function and deliver services, not only due to cancellation of events, but also because of operational difficulties, all in a time where support to vulnerable communities is needed most.

To sign up to the Workplace Giving Program or find out more call (07) 5458 3000 or visit the website

Rebecca Whitehouse and Anne Nioa are starting their positions this week, with Anne having relocated to the Sunshine Coast over the Christmas break.

For new STEPS Charity executive manager Ms Whitehouse, the relocation is also a much-anticipated homecoming to work on the Sunshine Coast.

“I have had a close working relationship with STEPS group for several years, working alongside the charity team as the director of the event company who has managed the past three STEPS Grand Winter Balls,” Ms Whitehouse said.

“My appointment to the role of executive manager of STEPS Charity is one that will provide me with the scope to use my past skills and business acumen to innovate and grow the charity which has been built on solid foundations.

“The insight and relationships forged over this time will prove invaluable and provide a great foundation on which we will continue to build from.”

Ms Whitehouse, originally from Windsor, Brisbane was named Miss Sunshine Coast in 1997, back when the annual award recognised fundraising for the then Cerebral Palsy League charity.

STEPS Group managing director Carmel Crouch said Ms Whitehouse’s background in events, fundraising and business made her a perfect fit for the role.

“We have a strong foundation for Bec to build on and a very ambitious strategy for the future of STEPS Group,” Ms Crouch said.

“In 2020, we want to raise the funds for our next expansion to the STEPS Pathways College, which will potentially double our capacity and provide even more places for people with a disability to learn to live and work independently.”

Ms Whitehouse is joined in the charity team by new STEPS Autism Treehouse charity manager Anne Nioa, who has a very personal connection to the organisation.

“I have been part of the STEPS Group family since 2018 when my daughter Ariana enrolled at STEPS Pathways College,” Ms Nioa said, who has moved from Maryborough for the job.

“The work that STEPS Autism Treehouse does to educate families and improve the lives of those with autism is absolutely life-changing. My daughter recently graduated from STEPS Pathways College and is living independently on the Sunshine Coast.

“I am delighted to have an opportunity to give back and expand the work of an organisation that has done so much for me, and to be able to do so and live on the Sunshine Coast is a wonderful bonus.”

Ms Crouch said Ms Nioa’s experience in local government and her personal connection with STEPS Group and STEPS Autism Treehouse would ensure a bright future for the organisation.

“Anne has come to us with a vision of expanding our STEPS Autism Treehouse services to regional communities north of the Sunshine Coast, where there is an enormous need for support services for families living with autism,” Ms Crouch said.

“She will be continuing our very successful programs in the Sunshine Coast region and also expanding the number of events to help families further afield.”

The Sunshine Coast based, Pathways College, is the first educational facility of its kind in Australia teaching young adults with a disability the skills towards a life of independence.

STEPS Charity said they’re incredibly grateful to receive this extremely valuable luxury vehicle as it’s very rare to see such generous one-off donations from their supporters.

The Pathways College is expanding in 2020 to accommodate their growing needs, and thanks to the ongoing partnership forged with Shadforth, the students now have a vehicle to enable them to connect with the community for everyday transport to shops, facilities and recreation as well as excursions as part of their training.

Shadforth managing director Ray Shadforth said they are focused on building sustainable communities through great relationships, such as their ongoing partnership with STEPS Charity.

“Attending the annual STEPS Grand Winter Ball for the past few years has really opened my eyes to the great work their team does for our local community,” Ray said.

“Gifting this transport vehicle to STEPS Charity will enable STEPS Pathways College students to get out and about and further interact with the community.”

Shadforth is one of Queensland’s largest family-owned civil construction companies with more than 700 staff working for the Sunshine Coast business.

STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch said she is extremely thankful for the ongoing partnership between Shadforth and STEPS, and incredibly grateful for their generosity.

“Shadforth is a great example of a modern and socially conscious Sunshine Coast company that authentically integrates purpose into their business,” Carmel said.

“This level of support through a one-off donation is very rare, it is our single biggest donation of the year, and the impact this has on the Pathways College and the students’ day-to-day living is enormous.

“Shadforth are a wonderful community supporter and I am so grateful to Ray and his team for this fabulous gift.”

The College students, were there for the bus presentation and handover, they previously took part in a fun photo shoot to capture the image that is now featured through branding on the donated transport vehicle, branding which will be a mobile sign board to remind, inform and reiterate what STEPS does for many local families.

STEPS Pathways College is experiencing an exciting new phase of growth as the College continues to evolve and expand with the success of their first cohort – now graduated and living independently in the community, and a new cohort of students that now have the opportunity to develop the skills required for their own life of independence.

A brand new two story unit to accommodate new boarding program students will be built as an extension to the existing Murphy House building at the Caloundra campus in 2020.

The expansion will allow even more boarding students to reside in modern, fully fitted and contained units designed to replicate an independent living environment, alongside the day student program, while learning via the holistic, innovative teaching model that is STEPS Pathways College.

STEPS Charity is committed to making a difference by providing opportunity and a brighter future for people with a disability. For more information on partnering with STEPS Charity contact 07 5458 3000.

Their specialist, holistic approach to disability and mental health support and advocacy, has made them a leader in the sector, supporting and empowering individuals and their families.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was rolled out on the Sunshine Coast earlier this year, the new funding model is changing the landscape for people living with disability across the nation.

The NDIS provides all Australians under the age of 65 who have a permanent and significant   disability with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an enriched life.

STEPS Chief Executive Officer Kerry Staines says the NDIS is a revolutionary new scheme for Australians with a disability, their families and carers.

“STEPS are helping people to navigate through the web of information,” Ms Staines said.

“We’re working closely with our customers and families, showing them the tools and supports available to help them confidently achieve a life of greater independence based around individual needs and choices,” Kerry said.

Since the initial roll out, some changes have been occurring recently with the NDIS, with some improvements aimed at decreasing waiting times and increasing flexibility for participants.

The NDIS states, when fully rolled out, the scheme will service 460,000 Australians living with a disability.

The NDIS can provide all people with disability with information and connections to services in their communities such as medical, recreational clubs, support groups, libraries and courses, as well as information about what support is available to them.

STEPS have an expert and friendly team of Support Coordinators based in the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions, they have very sound knowledge when it comes to the NDIS and the services required to support the region.

STEPS Community Services Manager Josh Hansen believes their reputation speaks for itself, particularly when it comes to mental health support.

“We have been providing supports in the region for almost 30 years, we’re known for providing high quality services in both disability and mental health as well as developing partnerships in the community,” Mr Hansen said.

“We listen to our customers and we’re actively developing and implementing programs to service the current gaps in our region, in particular our recreational activity groups.

“We’re really focussed on social and recreational groups for adults, and teens with living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, disability and mental health.

“Our activity groups and camps are well known throughout the region, and we know that socialisation through these groups is not only fun, but great for learning and developing independent skills, it’s also about having a break away from routine and respite.

“We’re committed to providing a quality service to our community,” he said.

STEPS Community Services also provide expert advice and support with Supported Independent Living (SIL), and Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA), Specialist NDIS Support Coordination, One-on-one or Group Support, assistance in Behaviour Management Planning and ASD Specialist Support – through STEPS Autism Treehouse.

From advice and planning to service provision, or even just a chat, STEPS are there every step of the way to ensure participants get the most out of their NDIS package and get on with living their best life.

STEPS tailor support to suit each client’s needs, with support programs built on dignity and respect.

For more information about STEPS and NDIS support, contact 1300 766 962.

Carers play a valuable and important role in today’s society, but we know that being a carer can be very challenging.

According to Carers Australia, carers provide $60.3 billion of unpaid care annually.

Carers make a significant contribution to the care and wellbeing of people with a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness and the aged.

STEPS Community Services Manager, Josh Hansen says being a carer can often be very challenging.

“STEPS aim to provide support networks that help to connect carers to community networks and provide a sense of support,” Josh said.

“Being a carer can be hard; by connecting carers with services and groups in their local area, we hope to let carers know they are important too, they are an extraordinary group of people that we really want to celebrate, especially at this time of year.

“It’s often very easy for carers to not take time for themselves, as they are too busy caring for someone else, but we want to let them know that self-care really is vital to ensure that they are looked after, feel well and most importantly feel supported.

“It’s a role that can be very isolating and we want to let carers know they are not alone,” Josh said.

STEPS Care for Carers is a free service designed to give carers the support, advice and counselling needed to maintain a healthy well-being.

The STEPS Care for Carers service will soon be transitioning to a new scheme, it is currently available in the Wide Bay, Burnett and Gympie regions; call 07 4150 1900 for more information.

For more information on Carers Week, visit www.carersweek.com.au

The NDIS provides all Australians under the age of 65 who have disability with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an enriched life.

There’s a lot of new NDIS information to navigate for participants, and when you’re busy being a parent or carer, getting the time to get a grip on the new terminology and how it all works can be hard.

STEPS Community Services have a team of Support Coordinators dedicated to helping you get the most out of your NDIS plan. Through their holistic approach, they’re there to help take the pressure off.

STEPS Chief Executive Officer Kerry Staines says the NDIS is a revolutionary new scheme for Australians with a disability, their families and carers.

“STEPS are helping people to navigate through the web of information. We’re working closely with our customers and families, showing them the tools and supports available to help them confidently achieve a life of greater independence based around individual needs and choices,” Kerry said.

Based in Maroochydore, STEPS Specialist Support Coordinator Chelsea Dunne works with families and individuals to help them work through their NDIS questions and help demystify the process.

“We really take the time to get to know our participants, we meet with them so we can put a ‘face to the name’ and understand what their needs and goals are,” Chelsea said.

“It’s all about ‘their choice and their control’, we’re here to help link participants to service providers for all aspects of their day-to-day living.

“We also believe that getting to know the service providers is just as important, so we know we are recommending providers that we can trust, that will be the best fit for the participants’ needs.

“There is a huge sense of satisfaction in being able to get to know a participant, listen to their story, help them to link in with services and the community, and watch them flourish.”

STEPS have an expert and friendly team of Support Coordinators based on the Sunshine Coast, so for Specialist Support Coordination, One-on-one or Group Support, assistance in Behaviour Management Planning and ASD Specialist Support – STEPS can help.

STEPS Community Services have more than 30 years’ experience in the disability sector. From advice and planning to service provision, or even just a chat, STEPS can help every step of the way to ensure you get the most out of your NDIS package and get on with living your best life.

Chat to STEPS about NDIS support on 1300 766 962.

Image: STEPS NDIS Support gives you the choice and control to live your best life – STEPS Community Services Recreational Camp 2019.

Shadforth is one of Queensland’s largest family-owned civil construction companies with more than 700 staff working for the Sunshine Coast business.

Managing Director Ray Shadforth said they are focused on building sustainable communities through great relationships, such as their ongoing partnership with STEPS Charity for the benefit of STEPS Pathways College.

“Attending the annual STEPS Grand Winter Ball for the past few years has really opened my eyes to the great work their team does for our local community,” Ray said.

“Giving this transport vehicle to STEPS Charity will enable lots of STEPS Pathways College students to get out and about and further interact with our community.”

After the delicious feast had been enjoyed, Ray and some of the College students took part in a fun photo shoot to capture an image that will be immortalized through branding on the donated transport vehicle. Branding which Ray said will be a mobile sign board to remind, inform and reiterate what STEPS does for many local families.

STEPS Managing Director Carmel Crouch said she is incredibly thankful for the ongoing partnership between Shadforth and STEPS, and in awe of their generosity.

“Shadforth is a great example of a modern and socially conscious Sunshine Coast company that authentically integrates purpose into their business,” Carmel said.

“They’re a wonderful community supporter and I am so grateful to Ray and his team for this fabulous gift to transport our Pathways students, thank you!”

A delectable spread was laid out at the morning tea with Shadforth staff taking a break from their busy day to enjoy the occasion and mingle with STEPS Pathways College students.

Shadforth staff had the opportunity to hear from students about their studies at the Pathways College – the first educational facility of its kind in Australia teaching young adults with a disability the skills towards a life of independence.

For more information on partnering with STEPS Charity to join the ‘give-back’ revolution and enhance your organisation’s social corporate responsibility, contact 07 5458 3000.

It’s the question being asked around Australia this week as we recognise R U OK? Day, a national day of action and awareness around suicide prevention and supporting people who may be struggling. And while many are asking the question, one group has decided to take it up a notch and sing it.

Local musician Kim Beckman, a Support Worker for STEPS Community Services, said his clients wanted to communicate the question ‘Are you OK?’ in a way that felt meaningful to them. With music being a popular part of the recreational activities offered to clients at STEPS Community Services in Maroochydore, it made sense that this was the space where inspiration was found for communicating the R U OK? Day message.

Kim said while participants come from a range of disabilities, something they had in common was enthusiasm and the desire to “look for something to give” when they began working together on song lyrics during a weekly music session.

“Music is one of the few things that cuts through any damaged layers of the brain and can effect healing,” Kim said. “In this case it’s really enabled people to be involved, to take ownership of their message.”

“It’s also about social inclusion and being supportive of individuals in a group. Writing it was a collaborative effort, and the song became completely their work and their words. We went with ideas about being generally aware if someone’s having a bad day while exploring rhyme and music at the same time.”

The song has a “great groove” and is fun to sing, but Kim said it’s the words that participants really connect with.

“When the song is finished the group will stand up and walk around to everyone in the room and say ‘Are you OK?’. They really connected with the catch phrase and it’s opened the door to what we are really asking and supporting further conversations.”

 Looking for mental health support or joining a social group at STEPS? Contact us on 07 5456 7100.

The R U OK? Day song

Hey, R U OK?

Hey, what can I say?

Hey, R U OK?

Hey, how is your day?

If you see someone who’s feeling down

If you see someone who’s got a frown

Help them rise up, to stop feeling down

Help them get their feet back on the ground

If you see someone who’s looking mad

You can tell them it’s not that bad

What can you do, to help them get through?

I’m going to give you all a little clue

View the photos here.

Until next year… 

To find out how to get involved in 2020 contact STEPS Charity on 5458 3000

As part of this new government funding system, those living with disability in Australia can have greater choice and more control.

STEPS Deputy CEO Kerry Staines said while the scheme is a very positive step forward for the one in five Australians who live with a disability, it can also be a confusing system to navigate.

“The NDIS is a revolutionary new scheme for individuals with a disability, their families and carers,” Ms Staines said.

“STEPS are helping people to navigate through the web of information and are working closely with our customers and families, showing them the tools and supports available to help them confidently achieve a life of greater independence based around individual need and choices.”

For clients who need assistance with NDIS Plan Management and Coordination Support, STEPS is there to assist.

STEPS is an industry leader with over 30 years’ experience working in the sector. They can help select the appropriate services for individuals to achieve their specific goals.

STEPS NDIS Support Coordinators have localised, specialised knowledge on what support services are available to help clients find the best services to suit their needs, and at the right price.

The organisation can even manage an individual’s plan, taking out the hard work, so they can get back to living life and focusing on what’s important to them.

STEPS also support Australians living with mental illness on their journey towards recovery. STEPS’ services are designed to provide greater well-being, enjoyment, and independence in life.

STEPS NDIS support services include:

• Assistance with day-to-day activities
• Supported accommodation
• Recreational activities such as art classes, social gatherings, camping, fishing, bushwalking
• Community access and participation
• Development of life skills for independent living
• Help with returning to the workforce in a job best suited to an individual’s employment goals.

STEPS Community Services are passionate about helping to create brighter futures.

Chat to STEPS about NDIS support on 1300 766 962.

Every year supporters and sponsors of STEPS Charity gather to raise funds for people with a disability in an evening worthy of a Hollywood spectacular.

STEPS Charity Manager Angela Harrison said the event is the charity’s largest of the year, but for the upcoming 30-year Anniversary of STEPS, things are going to be raised a whole new level.

In 2019, the event has moved locations to the brand-new Sunshine Coast Convention Centre at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort, allowing it to cater to the demand of being able to hold more guests within a larger space.

This has opened up some exciting entertainment opportunities, but Ms Harrison insists she cannot say a word, without unveiling the surprises.

Ms Harrison said the event was one that many locals look forward to as they get the chance to dress up in their fanciest attire and spend the evening living like a star.

“I believe it is THE premier black-tie event of the Sunshine Coast,” she said.

“Everyone loves getting glammed up in their ball gowns and tuxedos because you don’t get to do that very often.

“It really is an incredible event where we pull out all stops to deliver the most amazing evening for the Sunshine Coast all while raising much needed funds.

The 2019 STEPS Charity Winter Ball held in partnership with BA Murphy Constructions will be held on July 27.

Photo: The 2018 STEPS Grand Winter Ball. Baz Rufus photography.

They provide support to the community with access to resources, life skills programs, education and regular social events. STEPS Deputy Chief Executive Officer Kerry Staines said they are focussed on creating opportunities for young people living with autism and their families to enjoy life to the full and develop meaningful connections with their community.

“I have always held the view that the best way to support families and young people living with autism is by providing the opportunity to connect with others in their community in a safe, and supported way,” Ms Staines said.

“Key to the success of our services is listening to families to understand what their needs are as they navigate school, social situations and relationships, as well as continual changes to technology, awareness, policy and funding.

“We recently increased our service offering to provide support and social groups for teenagers living with autism which has been really popular.

“We’re continuing to listen to the community and constantly evolving and changing our services so that we can fill the gaps and meet the needs of the community,” she said.

STEPS bring a range of health professionals and autism experts to speak at workshops and presentations throughout the year at their educational workshops to help connect families with the latest information. They will be hosting the inaugural STEPS Sunshine Coast Autism Seminar this October with keynote speaker Professor Tony Attwood.

They also have NDIS Support coordination officers to help with NDIS plan management and support for the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg regions.

To find out more visit stepsautismtreehouse.org.au

Based in Maroochydore, STEPS Community Services Sunshine Coast offer flexible and fun recreational activities for health and wellness as well as forming friendships and social networks.

STEPS Deputy Chief Executive Officer Kerry Staines said all their customers are unique, so they make it a priority to understand their customer’s needs and tailor services to meet each individual’s unique needs.

“By assisting a person to be healthy, well and secure, we can open them up to opportunities that truly make a difference,” Ms Staines said.

“We work strategically to grow and expand our services to help people in need of assistance, including those who are vulnerable due to isolation, limited support networks and are facing multiple barriers to wellness.

“Our services are designed to provide greater well-being, enjoyment, and independence in life.”

Getting active, socialising and having fun is at the core of all recreational activities organised by STEPS.

With a broad range of classes, ranging from bushwalking and swimming to cooking and craft, there is something for everyone including three-day camps held twice annually. Find out more about the activities here.

The classes are available for everyone to take part in.

For more information phone 07 5456 7100.

That’s why we thought we’d let you know a few facts about the program –

Holistic Learning

Students gain independent living skills, engage in recreational activities, and have the opportunity to build lifelong friendships with other students. The Day Program focuses on nine core domains of learning –

1. Communication: Students learn to communicate effectively in everyday situations; conversational skills; appropriate body language; and conflict and problem solving in a housing setting.

2. Social skills: Manners and politeness; listening to and following directions; relationships and friendships; and expression of feelings (appropriate to social settings).

3. Home living skills: House cleaning; gardening and yard maintenance; laundry; planning healthy meals; following recipes; food storage and food safety; cooking and food preparation; grocery shopping; and how to use and operate domestic electrical appliances safely.

4. Healthy living skills: Exercise and physical activity; maintaining wellbeing; nutrition; and sex education.

5. Community connections: Accessing public transport; vehicle safety (while a passenger and/or driver); recognising road signs/road safety; travel safety; and recreational activities.

6. Recreation skills: Accessing theme parks and other entertainment like bowling and the movies; appropriate social behaviours; and accessing community activities like walking groups, art groups and other social groups.

7. Maintaining a tenancy: Rental agreements; being a tenant or co-tenant; being a good neighbour; and responsibilities as a tenant.

8. Employment pathways: Employer expectations; maintaining employment; and further education.

9. Technology, literacy and numeracy for life: Money handling, banking, using an ATM; paying bills and budgeting; computer skills – internet and email use, typing skills; and mobile and smart phone use.

Individualised Training

Our students have highly specialised needs, which is why we provide individually tailored learning experiences. Our professional trainers and skilled in providing comprehensive and quality education services to people with a disability and have many years’ experience in similar roles.  Importantly, the STEPS Pathways College learning environment is solidly focused on respect and understanding.

Independence is our Core Business

Our Day Program is suitable for graduating high school students and other young adults looking to gain the necessary skills to navigate a life of independence – without the pressure of living on campus.

It is an intensive training course designed to provide the necessary experiences to develop the skills these young people need to experience a life of independence.

The Nuts and Bolts

Our Day Program runs much like any school – Monday to Friday 9am – 3pm.  Learning is both theoretical and experiential and involves a combination of classroom and community-based teaching.

Next steps

Day Program students have the opportunity to progress through the curriculum and into community living, or apply to access STEPS Pathways College boarding facility. Boarding students enjoy the privacy of their own bedroom, bathroom and patio, while sharing a living room, kitchen and outdoor entertaining area. They also get to make use of all the STEPS Pathways campus facilities.

Our message

Graduate to a new life of independence. It’s your life – make it happen. Find out more at www.stepspathways.com.au

Having children with a disability and facing the lack of opportunities for independent living, they embarked on a revolutionary plan to deliver a program that emulated real-life, teaching students independent living skills by immersing them into the experiences of day-to-day living. These are skills many of us take for granted, but they are fundamental building blocks for an independent, meaningful life.

STEPS Pathways College opened in 2017, the first of its kind in Australia. Its mission: to create brighter futures for young people living with a disability; to provide the experience required to learn to live independently and to choose a life they want to live.

Proudly, the College has been able to ‘fly’ because of the generosity of local businesses and individuals. You can make your EOFY donation here.

Earlier this year, our first five graduates donned mortar boards and courage and took the formal step of graduating College (and their home of the last two years) – ready to dive into independent futures.

Since then, Ari and Morgan have gained employment at Caloundra RSL. Ari has plans to move in with one of her College friends in Caloundra, rather than return to her hometown of Maryborough.

“I bought Ariana a little cottage here for when she came back, but she doesn’t want to come back to Maryborough. She now thinks that her life is in Caloundra, which is just fantastic,” Ariana’s mum Anne said.

Another one of our graduates, Tom has taken the courageous step towards the fulfilment of a long-held dream – he has moved to Melbourne to live in his own unit.

Moving almost 2,000 kilometres to live independently in big-city Melbourne would have been almost unthinkable a few years ago, but Tom has learned to handle challenges with a problem-solving mindset and has worked determinedly towards his dream. He also learned to cook, clean, wash, budget and shop – all the skills needed to live independently.

During his time at the College, Tom completed work experience with a Sunshine Coast sign-writing business. He was a huge hit with the staff and excelled at customer service. This experience will help Tom reach his next goal – to find a job in Melbourne. He has a passion for computers and all things IT and hopes to find employment in this sector.

Enrolling at STEPS Pathways College can be challenging for students; it means embracing loads of new experiences, including learning to live away from home – usually for the first time. It also represents an opportunity to grow, to spread their wings, and take on a whole new world.

Sending young people to STEPS Pathways College can also be a big step for parents. Knowing that students receive plenty of personalised support and a program designed to help them succeed is reassuring.

At this time of year we would like to ask you, our loyal supporters,  to consider making a tax deductible donation to STEPS Pathways College. Your donation will ensure many more students can be equipped for a future that is bright and engaged. That’s a great legacy.

Any amount you can give matters enormously. Donate Here.

The NDIS provides all Australians under the age of 65 who have a permanent and significant disability with the reasonable and necessary support they need to live an enriched life.

STEPS Social & Community have over 30 years of experience in the disability sector. From advice and planning to service provision, STEPS helps guide participants every step of the way to ensure they get the most out of their NDIS package.

There’s a lot of new NDIS information to navigate; here, STEPS have shared their top tips for NDIS planning:

CHECK – are you eligible

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) makes decisions about eligibility. Contact the National Access Team on 1800 800 110 or visit the NDIS website to check eligibility criteria.

APPLY – to participate

To become a participant, contact the NDIA ON 1800 800 110 to make a Service Access Request. If you already receive disability support services, the NDIA will contact you when it becomes available in your area. If you have yet to have any contact with the NDIA, call the office to ensure all your details are correct on their database.

CREATE – your plan, achieve your goals

To get ready for the planning meeting, think about your immediate support needs and current and future goals. Your planner will ask questions about what support or therapy you are receiving and your goals. It is beneficial to be prepared for your planning meeting.

USE – connect to services

Once your plan has been approved, it will be time to connect with services. There are several ways in which you can do this. You may receive funding for support coordination; alternatively, your Local Area Coordinator may help implement your plan.

REVIEW your plan – change it up if you need

The plan review is an opportunity to assess if your supports are working for you and if they are helping you work towards achieving your goals. The first NDIS plan review usually falls 12 months after your plan started. If your circumstances change during the year, you do have an opportunity to contact the NDIA.

STEPS Social & Community are passionate about helping to create brighter futures. They provide NDIS services to the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and Bundaberg regions. For more information, speak with our team today at 1300 766 962.

This year’s annual National Volunteer Week May 20-26 is a celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers.

Each year approximately 6 million volunteers give up their time to contribute towards an annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion.

The theme of the 2019 celebrations is ‘making a world of difference’, and that’s exactly what STEPS Charity event volunteer Jenny Triggs does as she generously gives her time, skills and energy to helping create brighter futures for young people living with disability.

Jenny has been volunteering with STEPS Charity for two years, she said she heard of the work of STEPS Pathways College that sparked her interest, having a son with Autism she was interested to learn more about the college, which prompted her to get involved.

“Having just retired from a career as a legal secretary, I was looking to pick up and start something else and to give back to the community, my son was attending a special school nearby, so I thought it could be easy for me to fit some volunteering work in too,” Jenny said.

“I really believe in the old adage ‘many hands make light work’, so I started volunteering with the STEPS Pathways College, then started with the Charity, helping out at their events.

“Volunteering is really wonderful to meet other people, form new friendships and it also gives a sense of purpose,” Jenny said.

When asked her advice for anyone thinking about taking up some volunteer work Jenny said to ‘just give it a try, even just a few hours a month’.

“STEPS are very professional and very caring, with such foresight for young people with disabilities,” Jenny said.

STEPS Charity manager Angela Harrison said Jenny is such a dedicated and generous member of the event team.

“Jenny, gives willing of her smile, her time and effort at every given chance, she’s witnessed first-hand the difference that STEPS Charity makes to support young adults living with a disability,” Angela said.

Feeling inspired? Contact STEPS Charity on 5458 3010 to find out more about their current volunteer vacancies, and get that rewarding feeling.

Image: Jenny (centre) with the ARB Maroochydore team at a STEPS Charity Event

This amazing amount of money goes straight into helping families on the Sunshine Coast living with Autism.

Through STEPS Autism Treehouse they connect to resources, workshops, events and importantly, other families going through similar experiences on their journey living with Autism.

The event helps to fund the development of  programs and events that improve Autism education and inclusiveness.

Thanks to everyone who supported this event either through participating in the Trek, sponsorship or donating to this very worthy cause.

Stay tuned to our Facebook page as we will soon be announcing the date for the 2020 event!

STEPS Charity recently hosted a working lunch presented by Ken Mills Toyota dealer principal Brett Mills, with their partners Ben and Amanda Murphy from BA Murphy Constructions, Jim and Angela Lee from The Fleet Office and Nick and Lara from ARB Maroochydore to discuss ‘why a business should give to a charity’.

They all advocate for a proactive ‘partnership’ approach when it comes to working with a charity and say it’s up to businesses to find a charity that aligns with their goals and culture to make a plan to work together, for the mutual benefit of both parties.

STEPS Charity’s managing director Carmel Crouch firmly believes a charity’s relationship with a sponsor is a two-way street.

“It can’t be one sided, businesses need more than just a warm fuzzy feeling at the end of the year, they need a return they can see in their budgets,” Carmel said.“It’s also about increased brand exposure and brand reputation, and this works both ways.

“It needs to be an investment worth making, I have an obligation to make sure we as a charity are giving back to our partners.”

STEPS believes that providing businesses with unique opportunities to connect with the community and make a positive impact in the lives of others is a real benefit.

Nick and Lara believe that when their business aligns with a charity they grow together, noting they had already seen the benefits to their staff engagement and view it as a win-win.

Ben believes that a real cultural shift has been happening with how businesses value charities, something that didn’t happen years ago, particularly in the construction industry.

“We’ve seen lots of examples where the construction industry has partnered with industry on the Sunshine Coast with some truly amazing results for our community.” Ben said.

“We wanted to get involved because we felt it was our responsibility to give back to the community which has given us so much over the years.”
“Corporate social responsibility has been a shift, just as digital disruption is making changes in the way we do business, and if businesses don’t progress with that shift, they’ll get left behind.

“We’ve had calls from subcontractors looking to work with us because of the work we do in the community, they’re offering us better rates and supplies, they want to partner with us because of the work we do with STEPS, and I underestimated that initially.

“We rely on 600 or 700 people to build one house, it works well for us to know how we can engage all these stakeholders, they may not like to go to a gala ball, but they do want to support our sponsored race day events, so a charity that can tailor a package to our needs works for us.

“As a new business it also gives us brand placement in the broader community, and now people know who we are.

Brett believes the importance of the right type of partnership is paramount, he urges business owners to think about where they’re spending money in their business and if that money can be redirected to a charity to create a mutually profitable situation.

“You’re going to spend money on branding and exposure for your business anyway, so why not do that with a charity and benefit the community too,” Brett said.

“The old way to think about it is to just donate to charity, but if you partner with a charity, making it beneficial for both parties, that’s a sustainable model.

“When you take a not-for-profit organisation and add a for-profit organisation what you get is mutual benefit, I can’t agree with that more.

“Charitable work brings together business people that have a similar mindset, that just naturally fit together, and from that common thinking, business relationships are built and then leveraged,” he said.

Brett says if more businesses invested in charities, more would prosper, so would the community, and so would their businesses.

Jim and Angela said they used to give to charity without any expectation on a return other than the benefit to the community, but after networking with other STEPS partners they believe that if their business prospers from giving to charity, then that provides even more opportunity to increase their partnership allowances.

STEPS Charity tailor packages to suit their partners’ needs, find out more on 5458 3000 or visit www.stepscharity.com.au 

Photo Matters Magazine: ARB Maroochydore Nick & Lara, Brett Mills of Ken Mills Toyota, STEPS Group Australia managing director Carmel Crouch, BA Murphy Constructions Ben & Amanda, STEPS Charity manager Angela Harrison, The Fleet Office’s Jim and Angela.

Tickets and full event information at  www.thestepsgrandwinterball.com

STEPS Community Services, who offer a range of programs and services aimed at building capacity and independence for people with a disability, said it welcomed a new era of support services that gives individuals the power to identify the best services for them, to gain control over their own finances.

Before rolling out NDIS services regionally in 2017, STEPS undertook several years of research and planning, and importantly met with families and individuals who are to be affected by the new scheme, gaining an in depth understanding of the community’s needs.

STEPS Community Services executive manager, Kerry Staines, said the organisation’s comprehensive approach to preparing for services under the NDIS has allowed them to break down some of the fear and uncertainty for their customers.

‘We’ve had many, many conversations with individuals and families around their concerns, hopes and expectations regarding their funding under the NDIS, and by truly understanding the needs of our customers we’ve been able to turn their feelings of uncertainty to feelings of confidence and positivity about their future,’ Ms Staines said.

‘We’re able to help our customers navigate the NDIS so that they are in a space of possibility, thinking about the services that will really help them get the most out of life, within a budget and support framework that aligns with their lifestyle,’ she said.

Ms Staines said that while the NDIS provided benefits to most individuals eligible under the scheme, she strongly encouraged people to align themselves with an organisation like STEPS to help them navigate the services available to them and make a plan for their funding.

‘We have seen some examples in earlier roll outs where individuals have been left short changed in their funding because they haven’t been fully aware of the opportunities available to them,’ Ms Staines said.

‘We’re advising that people do their research first and make sure they’re partnering with an organisation that has a detailed knowledge of the NDIS but also a genuine understanding of what’s important to individuals’, she said.

STEPS are hosting a broad range of services to help their customers prepare for the new scheme including NDIS pre-planning, support coordination, and plan management.

They’re also offering support services from assistance with daily living and self-care, to behaviour management, assistance with social and community participation, employment and skills development, and specialised services for people living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Ms Staines said the NDIS was just one more step in the right direction to achieving an even playing field for more than 4 million Australians with a disability.

‘We’re on track for a brighter, more inclusive future for people with a disability where people are empowered to live the life they choose’.

For more information about the NDIS contact STEPS on 5458 3000 or email enquiries@stepsgroup.com.au

A huge thank you to our wonderful naming rights partner for the third year running, Vantage Homes QLD, such wonderful supporters of the community and of STEPS Autism Treehouse!

Join us for a fun filled family day out hosted by STEPS Autism Treehouse!

Get bouncing in our Funland Playground, take a ride on the chair swing or try your balance on the mechanical surf board.

Get wet in our dunk tank then head over and hit the water slide! Don’t forget your swimmers!

Fancy getting your face painted? A butterfly? Spiderman? Take your pick! Then grab a balloon animal on your way past to the ‘Chill out Zone’ where you can take a load off and put your feet up in our bean bag area for a well earned rest before heading off for a pony ride or to the slime zone to get a little messy!

So grab your family and friends and join us for a fully inclusive, supportive and welcoming fun day fundraising for STEPS Autism Treehouse

This annual event is one not to be missed!

Date:  09/12/2018
Time:  9am – 2:00pm
Venue: Kawana Sports Precinct, 320 Nicklin WayBokarina, QLD, 4575 Australia
Cost: Tickets  are $10/person (all activities and rides included, children under 3 free). All funds raised go to STEPS Autism Treehouse.

This Men’s Health Week, being celebrated nationally from 11th to 17th June, Mark is encouraging all men to look out for themselves.

“I’m from the era where men don’t go to the doctor, and I think that needs to change from an early age,” he said.

Looking for a way to put his health back in top priority, Mark entered the half marathon distance at the upcoming Sunshine Coast Marathon.

“It started as a bit of a half joke. But then I started to think about it and thought ‘there’s something I can really push myself to achieve’,” he said.

Mark is no stranger to incorporating charity fundraising in his goals, and this year he has chosen to support the Sunshine Coast-based STEPS Charity.

“Every year I do a fundraiser for someone. I thought if I’m going to be doing a half-marathon I need to be fundraising at the same time,” he said.

“I’ve known about STEPS Charity for a while with all the work they do. I met Ange and was inspired by her passion and drive.”

STEPS Charity manager Angela Harrison said she was excited to join Mark and the other runners on the STEPS Charity Sunshine Coast Marathon team.

“This year I’ve entered to do the 10km race myself and have never run this distance ever before. The great part about this event is we can all be in the same team and enter whatever distance we want,” Angela said.

“Anyone is welcome to join our team. Whether you’re an experienced runner or not, I can say being a part of a team that’s fundraising for a worthwhile cause is so motivating and rewarding.

“All our STEPS Charity runners have pledged to help us fundraise to support young adults with a disability on the Coast,” she said.

STEPS Charity helps fund STEPS Pathways College, a unique education program that gives young adults with a disability the opportunity to learn skills to live independently.

To join the STEPS Charity Sunshine Coast Marathon team, select “STEPS Charity” as your team when registering at www.sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au/teams.

“I’ve also put my name down to volunteer with the turtle group, but so many people want to do it that there’s a waiting list,” Julie said.

National Volunteer Week is being celebrated across Australia on 21-27 May to acknowledge the difference volunteers make in our communities.

Julie said she enjoys being a part of the STEPS Nursery team because she likes being outside in the fresh air and being around great people.

“Volunteering here is perfect for me because I’ve got a love of plants and I’m doing something useful for the community,” she said.

“I’m now retired, and so it’s time to give something back to society.

“It feels good that the nursery is a part of something bigger,” she said.

STEPS Nursery is a part of STEPS Group Australia, a national for-purpose organisation that strives to create opportunities that make a difference in all the communities across its footprint.

STEPS Nursery manager Lisa Buckley said being a retail nursery that also gives back is really special.

“Our customers and volunteers know that when they buy a plant or donate their time here, they’re helping to support people with a disability in our community,” she said.

To find out more about volunteering at STEPS Nursery call 5436 6023 or visit the nursery at 9 George St, Caloundra.

Linda said she loves being a part of a program that provides students with the opportunity to gain independence.

Helping students build skills, knowledge and confidence, STEPS Pathways College is a training course designed to support young people with a disability as they work towards living independently in the community.

Holding a passion for learning, Linda said she has gained new knowledge in her volunteer role and is eager to learn more.

“I enjoy learning about the strengths of each student and how I can support them to be more aware of those strengths and believe in themselves and their abilities.”

“Being here is the passion in my life at the moment,” she said.

As Linda continues to dedicate her time supporting students at STEPS Pathways College, National Volunteer Week takes place from 21-28 May, an annual celebration that recognises the meaningful work of volunteers.

At 69 years of age, Linda said age is not a barrier to volunteering at the college and encourages more people to apply for roles.

Having volunteered for most of her adult life, in a range of different areas, Linda said she knew straight away that the volunteer support role was what she wanted to do.

“As soon as I heard about STEPS Pathways College and how the program builds independence for people with a disability, I knew that’s the one.”

“It’s a great place to volunteer because of the wonderful students and the team here.”

Originally planning to volunteer half a day each week, Linda currently spends four to five days with students at STEPS Pathways College, providing support when it’s needed.

Linda said working with the college students has been a very fulfilling experience.

“It has been the best, and I love it.”

Want to volunteer and make a difference? STEPS Pathways College offers flexible volunteer roles, contact us today on 5458 3000 or email pathways@stepsgroup.com.au.

For Professor Attwood, it was also a great chance to visit the Sunshine Coast, where he once called home.

“I’ve seen it change over the years, but I’ve always enjoyed that the Sunshine Coast seems to create a friendly atmosphere. You get nice people here,” he said.

The workshop covered important topics including building friendships and adolescent issues for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as strategies for managing challenging behaviour.

Professor Attwood, who will soon be heading to Europe to speak in a number of cities, said parents and carers play an important role in helping children with ASD to learn their own methods of reading social cues.

“Otherwise they’re going to have to learn by trial and error, which is sometimes not the best way to learn social understanding,” he said.

“We’re very much a social society and there is an expectation of social inclusion and integration.

“But for those with ASD it’s not easy, and they have to learn what was never taught to other kids.

“There aren’t lessons in how to make friends, read facial expressions and body language.

“Autism is being different, not defective. My best advice is to watch, listen, learn and don’t make assumptions,” he said.

Event attendee Rachael Anderson, a schools-based occupational therapist, said she’ll be sharing what she learnt from the workshop with her students and colleagues in Maryborough.

“Tony provided great information about the ‘why’ and ‘how’ people with ASD may perceive, experience and respond to social situations.

“I’m excited to see the difference some of the ideas can make for my students’ participation and happiness in their school day,” she said.

STEPS Autism Treehouse runs educational workshops for both parents and children, hosts social meet ups and other initiatives to support Sunshine Coast families with a loved one with Autism.

To find out more about upcoming events, or to donate, visit www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au.

As the recipient of this annual award Kerry has been offered the opportunity to complete the Company Directors Course, an intensive program that is delivered by the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).

Kerry said she was thrilled to have won the 2018 scholarship, and is looking forward to taking the world-class governance learnings and putting them into practice.

“This course is a wonderful opportunity for me to further develop my leadership skills.

“I feel proud to be granted the opportunity to participate in such an excellent program for directors in Australia.

“I’m extremely passionate about wanting to see the Sunshine Coast boom and flourish, and to be part of a progressive group that will deliver the next phase of success for our local community,” she said.

The Company Directors Course is a benchmark qualification for Australian directors.

The AICD Queensland State Manager Melanie Mayne-Wilson said the scholarship program aimed to support local directors on the Sunshine Coast.

She said they received many high quality applications but Kerry stood out due to her inspiring dedication to supporting industry training for people living with disabilities, and mental health issues, as well as the wider community.

“It was clear from her application that she has a real passion for working with the community, for the benefit of the community,” she said.

The wet weather held off for the lucky campers who got involved in a range of outdoor activities including kayaking, bushwalking, mini golf and hand feeding deer.

STEPS Recreational Activity Coordinator Anthony Walsh said everyone always looks forward to spending time together away from their usual routines.

“Camp is a great chance to relax with friends, have fun, try new things and enjoy a piece of the great outdoors we’re so lucky to have in this region,” he said.

“Many people in our group don’t often get the chance to enjoy a trip away. I know our campers will be talking about this trip for a while to come.”

STEPS client Scott McGrory said having some down time was the highlight of his break away.

“My favourite part of camp is being able to spend time relaxing with my friends,” he said.

After busy days the group enjoyed socialising, pampering facials and marshmallow toasting around the camp fire.

Anthony said much of the camp’s success is due to the efforts of STEPS staff and volunteers.

“This camp was one of our best yet. We were spoiled with good food, a great location and a wonderful bunch of people to share the experience with,” he said.

STEPS Community Services improves the quality of life for people with a disability. They offer a full calendar of regular recreational activities including art, music, sport and cooking.

For more information and to view the current activity timetable visit https://www.stepsgroup.com.au/group-activities/

STEPS Community Services is seeking volunteers to give a little time and have some fun helping us to provide people with a disability with opportunities to get active, socialise, and learn skills in our recreational activity groups.

STEPS Recreational Activity Coordinator Anthony Walsh is hoping volunteers will join in each week with our fun and enthusiastic groups.

“We know volunteering depends on availability and we have plenty of space for more people interested in getting the fishing group up and running again; and we just need a few more friendly faces to restart the keen ten pin bowling group straight away too,” he said.

Anthony is also looking for a well-organised wizard to lend their skills by volunteering their time as an assistant for administering the activities.

If you would like to volunteer to join in with our recreational activity groups, please contact STEPS Community Services on 07 5456 7100. We would love to see you!

Vesylachmy Wendt understands these challenges because she experienced it first-hand when she emigrated from Penang, Malaysia to Australia in 1996.

Keen to make a difference, Vesylachmy now works with migrants and refugees teaching students English in a volunteer role with STEPS Education and Training.

Vesylachmy is better known as Vijay at STEPS and said working for the not-for-profit organisation has enabled her to use her personal experience and give back to others.

“I have been on this journey of learning and discovery and I know how difficult it is to come to understand the intricacies of the English language.

“I enjoy working with my students and it is a great pleasure when I see them start to understand and develop their reading and speaking skills,” she said.

Working closely with both STEPS teachers and students, Vijay said STEPS is a welcoming organisation and volunteering has rewarded her with a great sense of satisfaction and achievement.

“I think the time and effort I put in is valued and appreciated here, and I feel that the students who are at STEPS benefit from the extra help that volunteers like me can provide for them.”

Vijay also enjoys seeing how opportunities often open up for students after they build their language skills, in their personal and working lives.

Currently STEPS Education and Training is looking for keen and compassionate volunteers to join the organisation and support their community by helping migrants and refugees to learn English.

National Training Manager Joel Stevens said every volunteer is a great support to STEPS’ students and their contribution really does make a difference.

“We offer a number of flexible, part-time volunteer roles for anyone who wishes to get involved and help our students to gain English skills so they are more confident in accomplishing their future goals in Australia.”

Joel said there are a range of volunteer opportunities available at STEPS and the organisation will also support volunteers to develop their tutoring skills; a win-win for everyone.

STEPS Education and Training has a range of volunteer tutoring roles in Darwin, to find out more call 1300 585 868 .

For volunteering opportunities in other regions call 07 5458 3000.

With 18 players on the court the Suncoast Spinners showed off their skills and taught the newbies a few tricks at the USC Sports Stadium.

The game was organised by STEPS Community Services support worker Brian Kerr and client Eli Leafe, who wanted to get back into wheelchair basketball in a more social atmosphere.

Disability Action Week is held annually in September with the aim of empowering people with disability, raising awareness of disability issues, and improving access and inclusion throughout the wider community.

Playing on and off for around ten years Eli said the game is a great chance to meet new friends, keep fit and learn new skills.

“It keeps me active and I really enjoy the social side of the game,” he said.

With no plans for a rematch just yet Eli said the new players did well for their first game.

“It was great! Everyone gave it a really good go and played really well. We all had such a good time, I can’t wait for the next one!”

Brian said the game was a chance for able-bodied people to give wheelchair basketball a go and see just how much skill is required to play.

“The way some of those players move their chair is unbelievable; literally running circles around some of the first time players. It was an opportunity for the players to give something new a go and see just how hard wheelchair basketball actually is,” he said.

Get involved with STEPS Community Service’s regular active and social recreational activities by checking our calendar.

Q: Can you tell me about your history with Ken Mills Toyota?

A: I’ve owned and operated Ken Mills Toyota since the end of 2002 so it’s coming up to 15 years this December. Prior to that I worked in my father’s dealership before heading to London. When I returned I was living in Sydney working for Toyota Australia before returning to the Coast.

Q: What does your role entail?

I have a fantastic management team who operationally run the business from day to day which leaves me able to focus on the strategic vision for the dealership; this includes fostering genuine community partnerships.

Q: When did you first become involved with STEPS Charity?

A: Our journey with STEPS began last year and in that time I feel we’ve created a mutually beneficial relationship between us. Whilst we do sell cars to STEPS for their employees and offer a cash sponsorship, our partnership runs deeper than that. For example, we offer our employees one paid day per annum to volunteer with our charity partners and we have some incredible STEPS initiatives coming up at a grassroots level.

I believe that a not-for-profit and profit should equal profit and that doesn’t necessarily mean money, it means working together to meet each other’s goals.

Q: Why do you feel passionate about supporting STEPS Charity?

A: I am impressed by what STEPS are doing as an organisation – it is a hand-up not a hand-out, and it is a sustainable model. I think Carmel is a really inspirational leader with a high level of integrity and I value her commitment to creating opportunities for people living with a disability.

Q: What are you looking forward to seeing at STEPS Charity in 2017?

A: I’m really looking forward to seeing students go through STEPS Pathways College! As a dad, to be in a position to support young people to live independently for the first time is something I am especially proud to be involved with.

I’m also looking forward to seeing whether we can work together to provide some education to the students around basic car maintenance as part of the program.

Q: How would you encourage other companies to get involved in charity support?

A: I think you’ve got to have an open mind and think about how you can create a relationship that’s beneficial for both parties and it’s not always that simple.

It doesn’t work in my opinion if someone just throws money at something, that’s generally short term. It’s about finding something that works for you both long-term so you can create a sustainable relationship, which I think is really important.

Q: How do you encourage your team to get behind your chosen charities?

A: As I mentioned, each of our employees now have the opportunity to take one paid day off a year to support one of our charity partners. We’ve only recently introduced this and a number of staff have already put their hand up and locked their days in.

Q: What are some of your goals for 2017?

Work as little as possible! Right now my objectives are to continue to run a successful business and spend time with my family. Travel is a perpetual goal and I am also currently learning to ride a horse with my son.

Q: And what is your own greatest achievement to date?

From a business perspective, I generally feel that we are running a dealership which is about more than just selling cars. I’m really pleased with where we are at. People are recognising us for the work we do in the community and I feel like it is genuine recognition, which is really important to me.

Q: In a few words can you tell us what your relationship with STEPS Charity means to you and your team?

It’s something we are proud to support. As a team, we all feel it is meaningful to be able to assist others to achieve their goals; goals that we are often able to take for granted.

Q: What’s in store for Ken Mills Toyota this year?

We’re looking at a really exciting year! We’ve just recently launched the new car model line – the C-HR –  and we have some aggressive sales targets to meet.

This year also has a strong focus on community events including our educational nights for P platers. As a local business that prospers from this community, I am strongly motivated by a desire to create and support programs that give back to it.

After working 30 years in administration, Paula retired 5 years ago and started looking for volunteer work that might suit her.

“I’d been looking at volunteer sites for a while but unfortunately they never seemed to involve admin work but then this position came up,” Paula said.

She said it’s fantastic what STEPS is doing.

“By volunteering with STEPS two to three days a week I feel that I am not only supporting a great cause but contributing to the community generally.”

Paula said she enjoys researching and data entry because she likes to keep busy but jokes that not everyone enjoys working for hours on a computer.

“I’m happy to work. I like doing this work. It gives me satisfaction, it makes me feel useful,” she said.

“I like that I can come in and there is always something to do.”

Paula said STEPS is a wonderful place to volunteer and the best part of her job is working with friendly people.

“They’re lovely people here and they try to keep the work varied and interesting.”

Paula said Charity Manager Angela Miles is someone she is glad to have met.

“Ange is really passionate about what she does. I can see she works well with volunteers and she’s never too busy to talk to you.”

Another added bonus for Paula is the beautiful grounds here, she said it makes it a really pleasant place to work.

“They even have a nursery here where I’ve been able to buy plants for my own garden”.

When Paula is not volunteering she is spending time with her family. Married for 36 years, Paula and her husband Graeme have two sons David and Chris. Chris and his wife have a three-year-old daughter, Becky, who is fluent in both Hungarian and English. Paula likes to spend a couple of days a week with her granddaughter and said she is “the light of my life”.

Want to donate your time and help us build brighter futures? STEPS has a range of volunteer positions available.

What inspired you to become an ambassador for STEPS Charity?

One of my family members lives with a disability, so I know firsthand how hard it can be. For years I have seen STEPS do amazing things in this area, and last year I decided that it was about time I lent a hand. Since teaming up with STEPS my eyes have been opened to the amazing things a community can achieve together and I couldn’t be prouder to an ambassador for such an amazing cause. The way they have broken down the barriers for people living with a disability is truly inspirational. Every single person should be equal and be provided with the same opportunities. I think STEPS Pathways College epitomises just this.

What do you love about STEPS Charity events?

Every event STEPS Charity organises is always a success and moves them closer to their fundraising target, but it’s also about helping to raise awareness for such an amazing cause. Every little bit counts!

Tell us a bit about the story you shared at the Living Legends Long Lunch?

I think the biggest point I wanted to get across was that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Coming into the Olympic trials last year my K2 partner and I were the total underdogs and on paper probably shouldn’t have qualified for the team. But that didn’t matter to us. After proving a lot of people wrong, we booked our spots but went into the Olympic Games facing the same problem. No one thought we could make the final, so we proved them wrong. I think this is the story for a lot of people, especially those living with a disability, so I want to show people that it doesn’t matter what others think about you, as long as you have belief in yourself you can achieve anything you put your mind to.

What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome in your competitive career?

I’ve had a few injury setbacks like any athlete, but I think the biggest thing I’ve overcome is learning to not take it all too seriously. It sounds weird, but it has been the cornerstone to my success in the couple of years. I used to overthink absolutely everything, every training session, every stroke, every breath. I went a bit crazy with it all. Doing this made me dread going to training and worry constantly which certainly doesn’t help performance.

How did you overcome it?

When I teamed up with Alyssa in the K2 at the start of 2015 I think I finally realised that I needed to have a bit more fun. Her and I are so similar and have now become best of friends. We both absolutely love kayaking, love going fast and love being able to hang out with each other all day, every day. I now have the ability to switch on and off when I need. When we are on the water or in the gym I make sure I am completely focussed, but as soon as we finish the session it’s almost as if we aren’t kayakers. We like to think of ourselves as comedians, but I don’t think anyone else thinks that. Since taking on this mentality my results have improved tenfold, and if anything goes wrong with my preparations or races I don’t beat myself up about it, I am now able to learn from it and move on.

What advice do you have for anyone aspiring to achieve great things?
If you love it and want to do well at it, nothing is stopping you. I love the saying “someday someone may make a movie of your life, make sure it doesn’t go straight to DVD”. It’s very cliché, but so relevant.

The panel style lunch will welcome the likes of Australian hockey captain Mark Knowles, K2 kayaker Alyce Burnett, K4 kayaker Jordan Wood, pole vaulter Alana Boyd, swimmer Gary Winram and a host of Australian champions to celebrate our local Living Legends.

Currently a number of Sunshine Coast businesses commit over $30,000 annually both in kind and financially to STEPS Charity as part of their Living Legends Program.

Think Money, BA Murphy Constructions, Murphy Homes and Ken Mills Toyota have all contributed significantly to help create opportunities for young people living with a disability this year.

The money raised from the event will assist in funding the ongoing needs for the STEPS Pathways College opening in April.

To celebrate the generosity of the Coast’s business community STEPS Charity are hosting some of Australia’s most inspirational Olympians at their Living Legends Lunch this March

“My team and I are impressed by the opportunities that STEPS Pathways College will create for young Australians aspiring to do things that we sometimes take for granted,

As a dad, to be in a position to support young people to live independently for the first time is something I am especially proud to be involved with.” Brett said.

“As an owner of a local business that prospers from this community, I am strongly motivated by a desire to support programs that give back to it. Every dollar raised means we’re another step closer to creating brighter futures for people living with a disability.’’

STEPS Charity will be hosting the Living Legends Lunch at The Lakehouse Sunshine Coast on March 17, tickets are $150 and include a two course meal, beverages and entertainment.

To reserve your seats please call STEPS Charity on 07 5458 3000 or book online here.

The annual TOOMOO ride will take place on April 29 this year and is expecting over 200 participants.

Founder of TOOMOO and avid cyclist Dave Fellows said STEPS Charity is the 2017 charity beneficiary due to their common focus of empowerment.

“I’ve chosen STEPS Charity as the beneficiary this year because they align perfectly with my principal desire in life – to empower. Together I can’t wait to be able to empower others to achieve things they never thought they could!”

From something that started four years ago as a crazy challenge, the ride has now raised over $40,000 for local charities.

Dave said the TOOMOO is more than just a ride.

“TOOMOO is a family of passionate individuals who share a common interest in cycling and a want to give back to our community; I look forward to welcoming new riders this year to share in our passion for empowerment.”

Money raised will provide opportunities for young adults with a disability to experience independent living in purpose built units, while undertaking an intensive training program.

After 12 months each student will graduate with the skills and ability to rent or buy their own home, cook their own meals, manage their own support needs, and lead a happy, healthy life of their own design.

STEPS Charity Manager Angela Miles said STEPS is thrilled to be named as this year’s beneficiary.

For more information or to register: www.toomoo.com.au

The STEPS Pathways College is the first of its kind in Australia that combines real independent living experiences with an intensive 12 month training course, students will gain the necessary skills that will allow them to successfully navigate their own lives and plan for their future.

STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch said the College was the organisation’s biggest achievement to date in terms of creating equal opportunities for people with a disability.

“Our aim is to provide a positive, life changing experience that will give our students the chance to live their life the way they choose just like you and I, with the tools and know-how to make important choices and decisions in life,” Ms Crouch said.

Students at the Caloundra-based College will master day to day living tasks, develop critical thinking skills, gain confidence and self-awareness, make new friends and learn how to maintain healthy relationships all in a safe and supported environment.

While STEPS Pathways College is unique in its approach to long term outcomes for people with a disability, STEPS have also taken a different approach to funding.

From bricks and mortar to resource development STEPS Pathways College has been developed through funds raised, and donations of materials and services from the local community.

Despite opting for a 100% community funded approach, the college has still managed to catch the attention of government and the disability sector looking for innovative ways to assist Australia’s growing population of people with a disability access equal opportunities for an improved quality of life.

“We have a situation in Australia where relatively young people are living in aged care facilities and other types of inappropriate housing where they would have been quite capable of living independently with the right training,” Ms Crouch said.

“We’re working as hard as we can to make a better, brighter future for people with a disability”.

Support STEPS Pathways College and help us create a brighter future for people with a disability by donating today.

The 13th annual event raised over $15, 500 which will be put towards funding the STEPS Pathways College opening this year.

Thousands of spectators lined the shore along the Mooloolaba canals to watch the parade of over 50 festively decorated boats. A record-breaking number of waterfront homes also dressed up for judging in the competition.

STEPS Charity would like to send the warmest thank you to Mooloolaba Yacht Club for selecting us as your charity of choice for 2016, and of course a thank you to everyone who attended and entered for making the event the enjoyable success it was.

We would also like to thank the local businesses that jumped on board with their generous support in donating prizes for the STEPS Charity raffle and competition winners, as well as the event sponsors that made the evening possible.

If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor for this year’s event please contact us on 07 5458 3000- planning is already underway to make 2017 even better!

Over two days volunteers served up hundreds of the ever popular “Bunnings snag” raising more than $4,400 to support independence for people with a disability on the Coast.

Business Beats named STEPS Charity their charity of choice in 2016 beginning a long relationship that will continue to provide important support to the charity while giving the group’s members a meaningful way to contribute to the community.

STEPS Charity Manager Angela Miles said that community partnerships with organisations like Business Beats were critical to achieving real change in the community.

“Having business and organisations like Business Beats add a fundraising component to their regular activities is an opportunity to make a real difference.”

Angela urged businesses to think about what events they were planning to host throughout the year and to consider using the event to raise funds for a charity or cause close to their heart.

“Of course we would love organisations to make STEPS Charity their charity of choice, but any fundraising that can help our community is a worthy endeavour.”

If you have an event coming up consider raising funds for STEPS Charity – your support can help create real change in our community.  Call us on 07 5458 3000.

Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

Similarly to the age old proverb, the independent living program aims to give people with a disability the skills to live independently in mainstream housing. This not only takes pressure off designated disability housing, but provides people with the independence, choices and lifestyle most of us take for granted.

The program, which will be launched next year, will teach young people with a disability a range of skills including how to shop for nutritious food, prepare healthy meals, manage household costs, and organise support services.

Help us create a brighter future for young people with a disability by donating to the STEPS Charity independent living program.

Can you tell me how you came to volunteer at STEPS?

I saw an advertisement for the ‘By Your Side’ program on the internet, contacted Cheryl McGrath and started on my volunteer journey with STEPS.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Meeting many different people and feeling that I’m helping them to achieve their goals.

[su_pullquote align=”right”]“It’s fabulous when we hear that someone we know has gained employment”.[/su_pullquote]

Have you experienced any special or memorable moments in your time volunteering for STEPS?

Every time one of our clients achieves success!  It’s fabulous when we hear that someone we know has gained employment.

What would you say to others who were thinking about volunteering?

Just do it!  Whatever effort you put into your volunteer role, you will be rewarded many times over with the friendships you make and work skills you gain.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

STEPS  has been a fabulous organisation to work for – they have always supported and included me, and make me feel like a valued member of the team.

I work with people who drop into STEPS to search for employment.  I help with writing cover letters, resumes, and checking emails as well as help people prepare for interviews by practicing answering questions an employer may ask.

How did you come to volunteer at STEPS?[su_pullquote align=”right”]“I feel so appreciated and know that the little steps taken during the drop in sessions are often bigger ones in the lives of the people coming in the doors”.[/su_pullquote]  I was encouraged to gain experience with people and working in a team as part of my university course.  My teachers wanted their students to develop their people, team and communication skills and gain insight into a broader perspective on challenges people face.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?

I love seeing a person smile or thank me for helping them use a computer or write a cover letter.  Seeing a person grow in confidence after being in a session where I have helped them makes me feel so happy!

Have you experienced any special or memorable moments in your time volunteering for STEPS?

Absolutely, I have loved talking to a lovely fellow who does not speak English as his first language.  He is always very patient if I help him fill out any forms – which sometimes have words that are unfamiliar to me!  He has a smile on his face and always wants to have a laugh with others.  He gave me a hug and expressed his gratitude after I had sat with him for over 2 hours to help in fill in a job application.  That hug meant a lot and I know I had made a difference to his life for that day.

What would you say to others who were thinking about volunteering?

If you are interested in volunteering, why not have a go?  I feel so appreciated and know that the little steps taken during the drop in sessions are often bigger ones in the lives of the people coming in the doors.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The team at STEPS helped me to feel confident and supported upon beginning my volunteering, and this allowed me to feel capable of providing valuable assistance to people dropping in.  I am sure I would have felt more apprehensive without the positive team!

STEPS truly values the role our volunteers play in helping us to help others achieve positive change in their lives.  Our volunteers work across a range of different roles, programs and locations.  If you would like more information about volunteering at STEPS please give us a call on 54543000 or send us an email at enquiries@stepsgroup.com.au

The truck, along with its busy residents, is a part of Jamie’s Ministry of Food, a fantastic program set up to help educate people about healthy food and healthy cooking.

Our budding chefs over these last 5 weeks have been our lucky clients at STEPS Link In who thoroughly enjoyed their time learning how to shop, cook and eat healthy.

STEPS Link In Manager Rob Walter said the program was a great success with some really awesome moments.

“People really came out of their shell and found the sessions both enjoyable and helpful in gaining new skills and knowledge of healthy eating habits”.

As Jamie’s Ministry of Food mobile kitchen continues to work its way around the country, STEPS are busily preparing for the launch of their own cooking skills classes to be held at their George Street campus kitchen in Caloundra.

Like Jamie’s Ministry of Food, STEPS cooking classes will include educating students on good nutrition and food preparation with a focus on healthy minds and bodies.

Managing Director for STEPS Group Australia Carmel Crouch said she hopes the new program will inspire STEPS clients and individuals in the community to make better food choices.

“Good diet is so important to physical and mental well being. By showing others how to cook nutritious and tasty food we can really help improve the overall health of our community”.

STEPS Link In team members donned their best and brightest spandex for a week of super hero themed events aimed at promoting mental well being in the community.

Events were held across the entire Sunshine Coast as community organisations banded together to raise awareness and reduce stigma attached to mental illness.

[su_pullquote]“Shaking the stigma attached to mental illness is vital for achieving healthy communities”[/su_pullquote]STEPS Link In Mental Health Case Worker Laufoli Tulisi said the week was a huge success and a lot of fun for all.

“We had such a great turnout at all of our events, I’m really happy that so many people came out in support of promoting such a worthy cause”, Mr Tulisi said.

According to SANE Australia 45% of the population will experience some kind of mental disorder in their life time with 1 in 5 Australian’s experiencing mental illness during a single 12 month period.

Managing Director of STEPS Group Australia Carmel Crouch said that while she was impressed with the amount of community support the events received, Australia still has a long way to go in terms of our attitudes towards mental illness.

“Shaking the stigma attached to mental illness is vital for achieving healthy communities”, Ms Crouch said.

“I think we all underestimate how many of us are touched by mental illness in our lives in some way or other, whether it be ourselves, a family member, friend or colleague”.

For many STEPS staff it was the first opportunity to meet new fellow team members after Link In Association Sunshine Coast Inc. became part of the STEPS Group in February this year. They also welcomed the opportunity to meet clients of the new STEPS Link In Services, with several commenting that such an opportunity really invigorated the pride that they felt in working for an organisation that has such a positive influence on the lives of so many people.

Members of STEPS executive team, including Managing Director Carmel Crouch, also attended and were very pleased with the turn out. “It was just fabulous to see everyone together” said Carmel, “it is especially important for our new staff to feel like they are part of a united team and of course for our clients to feel comfortable that there will be no change to the quality service that they receive.”

The event was a huge success with a record number of clients attending and plenty of smiles all round.

Founded in 1993, Link In has been providing individualised support for people suffering mental illness and/ or disabilities.

Link In and STEPS share common goals and values and have worked together for the benefit of mutual clients for some time. With a combined 45 years of disability services to the Sunshine Coast community, the coming together of our two organisations will only benefit those that we serve – our clients, employees and the communities in which we operate.

STEPS will now be able to offer people living with a disability a more holistic service supporting them through in-home services, personal development and wellbeing, employment, and ultimately greater independence.

We are excited to welcome Link In staff members to the STEPS team, who have shown great passion and dedication for their jobs and the clients they take care of.

Details about the new STEPS Link In services will be published in the “Social and Community” section of our website soon.

See also: Coast Disability Groups Merge (Sunshine Coast Sunday, 16th February 2014)

Many Sunshine Coasters joined the festivities which comprised the Recycle Markets, as well as a variety of exhibitors and entertainment including live music, arts and crafts using only recycled materials, a live art display, information stalls, face painting, food, and raffles with some great prizes on offer.

STEPS operate front-end activities including the extremely popular Recycle Markets at the Caloundra Resource Recovery Centre as part of a recycling contract for the Sunshine Coast Regional Council. The STEPS Mattress Recycling program is an innovative addition which helps improve environmental sustainability while employing disadvantaged people in meaningful work.

Many of STEPS’ clients find employment at the Caloundra Resource Recovery Centre. On top of that, profits from the Recycle Markets go back into helping others gain employment or training for a brighter future.

All participants, stallholders and volunteers played a very important role in helping raise community awareness about recycling and better caring for the environment, and it’s safe to say, with such a delighted group of visitors, that the Recycle Fun Day was a resounding success!

Our fabulous coordinator Beth organised this expo for the second year in a row and was delighted when around 30 service providers in the area attended to flaunt their wares. About 200 people came along and WIN News covered the event which was televised in Bundaberg that night.

Congratulations Beth and the rest of the team at Bundaberg for putting on such a great event and thank you to our wonderful volunteers for their support!

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The Childers Care for Carers group celebrated Christmas by sharing in a morning ‘High Tea’ complete with their own teacup and accompanying story.  Many of the women in the group shared the story of their teacup along with some emotional tears and it was incredibly uplifting to be a part of such a supportive group of women.  Each teacup had a terrific story from travels in exotic locations to being witness to the turbulent history of the owner.  Many were handed down through generations and some even made it through the war.  There were a few nervous moments when the teacups were used, some for the first time, for morning tea which was beautifully laid out by the ladies.

The Childers group has maintained a steady attendance of ladies who have helped each other through some very difficult caring moments and have supported each other both emotionally and practically.  The ladies have welcomed new members to the group and sadly said good-bye to older members; they have taken the initiative and started a second, purely social group that meets on the ‘off-fortnight’ and they will be looking at pooling their considerable talents towards a charitable venture in the new year.

After teacup stories were told, the Carers enjoyed cucumber sandwiches and petit fours before indulging in a little seasonal silliness with Christmas trivia, compiled by group facilitator, Justine Halpin and Aussie version Christmas songs provided by facilitator Julie Blake.

The morning was a great success and testament to the fellowship and support that the Care for Carers program is bringing to Carers in the Wide Bay.

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QBE  will make further donations to the STEPS Charity if you change your Motor Vehicle Compulsory Third Party Insurance over to QBE. It will cost you nothing except a few moments of your time and there is an extra personal insurance incentive in it for you too.

QBE have offered to make a donation to STEPS Charity every time someone changes over their CTP (Compulsory Third Party Insurance) to QBE.  It will cost you nothing and in fact you stand to gain because QBE are also offering $1 million Driver Protect Cover at no extra charge.  This means that you, personally, are covered for any health issues as a result of an accident in addition to full cover for the other party/parties involved.

This offer applies to anyone changing over to QBE who uses the QBE – STEPS form attached below, only two criteria apply

1. Insured Driver must be 30 years or over
2. Vehicles must be Queensland registered

For anyone who changes over in the Gympie to Gold Coast to Toowoomba region – QBE will donate $20 per QBE CTP received

For anyone in the rest of Queensland – QBE will donate $50 per QBE CTP received

This is a wonderful offer and could result in a great contribution to our community service programs.  Simply take two minutes to complete the attached form and your new CTP will apply from your next registration renewal and ask everyone to consider the changeover to support STEPS and the fabulous work we do in the community. Remember for STEPS to receive the donation the change request must go in on the attached form

The charity has been set up to raise the profile of the work  done and the contribution made by the many and varied STEPS Group programmes and projects to those who are disadvantaged and living in our community.

STEPS  Charity wants to give  businesses and individuals the opportunity to support STEPS in its purpose of creating opportunities to assist and enable  disadvantaged and disabled people towards independence.

Key sponsors of that  event included Century 21-Grant Smith Properties, Prima Office Furniture, Holmans Accountants, White House Celebrations, Sunshine Coast Council, Red Energy , Mark Cotterell Jeweller, XS Entertainment, Queensland Complete Printing , Mix FM, Southern Cross Ten, Sunshine Coast Daily and VA Creative Agency.

Thanks to the wonderful support of business across our networks in Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania, STEPS continues to offer life changing services to those in the community who need it most. Every day through the untiring work of our staff and supporters, we  endeavour  to grow the STEPS Charity into one that is recognised nationally for its efforts to support and encourage disadvantaged people in their effort towards gaining independence and an improved quality of life.

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Based on the Sunshine Coast, the cleaning business provides commercial and industrial cleaning, and property and yard maintenance services and currently employs 13 of  STEPS clients who have disabilities. This financial year alone they have picked up six new contracts including the contract to provide cleaning services for a number of Queensland Government buildings on Lady Musgrave Drive at Mountain Creek.

Employees can purchase their own equipment via a pay-back system set up and encouraged by the team at STEPS. Contracts are facilitated and coordinated by the STEPS team for participating employees who are partaking in the pay back system for equipment. This system, while still in its infancy stage, is proving very popular and is already achieving key goals.

The service now also uses 100 per cent environmentally friendly cleaning products, which it now buys from a company in Nambour as a way to be supportive of the STEPS triple bottom line initiative: help the environment, assist the welfare of workers and reduce overhead costs. The switch to the new products has in fact saved STEPS 50 per cent of the overhead cost reserved for cleaning products, while also reducing the amount of training regarding chemical handling and safety with chemicals for each new staff member – therefore saving time and more money.

Todd, who was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, has been studying IT at the Sunshine Coast TAFE for 1.5 years.

It was during his time at TAFE that Todd became aware of an initiative facilitated by the National Disability Coordination Officer Program (NDCO), hosted by STEPS Group –  the Surat Basin Work Placement Project.  This Federal Government funded initiative aimed to introduce students to the resource sector and highlight to employers throughout the Surat Basin the benefits of employing students from TAFE and University with a disability.

“I heard about STEPS in high school, through the head of special education, but I didn’t get involved until I participated in the NDCO Surat Basin Work Placement project in October,” he says. “I loved every moment of it. I wanted to wake up in the very early morning to go to work because I loved the work.”

Through the National Disability Coordination Officer Program, Todd was able to gain meaningful work experience and make valuable contacts with his work experience employer, Dalby-based civil construction company Oswald Bros.

“The resource sector was sourcing qualified employees interstate and internationally due to demands and times of high workloads and I was interested to introduce these employers to the largest untapped market – students with disabilities who are currently engaged in tertiary and vocational education,” Debbie Rooskov, National Disability Coordination Officer with STEPS, says.

“The majority of participating students were near qualified, motivated and towards the end of their courses with possibilities to relocate for work purposes.” Thanks to his enthusiasm and aptitude during his work experience, Oswald Bros decided to offer Todd a more long-term opportunity in the IT department.

“I was impressed with how much information Todd took on board in the three days he was with us in IT, and his ability to take on board a number of tasks on his own with limited supervision,” Ostwald Bros IT supervisor  Nicky Webster says. “I don’t think we would have come across Todd had it not been for the Surat Basin project and I was pleasantly surprised at how well he interacted with internal clients considering he is a student.”

Todd is close to completing his Certificate IV in Networking, and Oswald Bros is keen to consider more students like him in the future after being so impressed with his abilities and attitude towards the work he has been doing.

“I don’t think I would have got the opportunity without the NDCO program,” Todd says. “I am now working with STEPS to find employment.

“This experience has had a big impact on my life. I want to work and I see myself in a particular career, and it just shows it’s not a big scary world out there; there are some friendly people out there that will sit down and teach you.

“I’d tell anyone to give it a go too.  Do go through the NDCO program and do the work experience if the opportunity arises again; if you do not you will miss out on a positive experienced like I had with Oswald Bros.

The program evolved over the weeks as the creative minds of staff sought to evoke the curiosity of the school students. Techniques developed such as volunteer life coaches Karen and Rob (Protect-A-Puss) demonstrating the correct ways to fall and the importance of buying the correct fitting helmet to protect.

Coordinator Heather brought shared true accounts of family and community members involved in accidents affecting the head.

Brendon, STEPS Community Awareness Campaign Officer, used shock visual aids to express the importance of paying attention and taking control in looking after the brain from an early age.

During school workshop STEPS’ very own feline character Protect-A-Puss distracted the students with a fur ball before introducing the importance of staying alert. Brendon’s creation, the jelly-moulded Franken-brain, demonstrated how the brain is impounded within the skull during impact.

Graphical video clips showing the impact on the head and the results of inattention to the surrounding environment, particularly when texting or not wearing a helmet.

Students and teachers praised the program and have encouraged STEPS to host more of these educational programs in schools in the future.

Due to personal reasons and circumstances out of her control, the Scottish-born fighter had no proof of identity (ie passport, birth certificate), had been homeless with her children for more than six months, unemployed and as she says ‘just down and out.’

Caboolture Family Haven referred Mary to STEPS Participate in Prosperity (PiP) program. The program, available thanks to state government funding from the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative,  offered assistance from anything to helping with obtaining documentation such as birth certificates, working with legal aid, sourcing accommodation to even providing fuel vouchers so clients can make job interviews.

Over an 18 month period, Malcolm (Program Coordinator, pictured above) and Leanne (Project Officer) assisted Mary to source new identification papers, move into accommodation closer to her children’s school, support her with her legal issues via Pine Rivers Community Service, and later supported her in finding a career in her chosen field.

“When I first came to Malcolm and Leanne I was homeless and staying at a refuge in West End,” Mary said. “I was travelling from Brisbane to Kallangur every day for the kids’ school.” “The first six months with PiP were really intense. They helped me with my identification as I didn’t have any, which meant finding my birth certificate in Scotland.” “They were so wonderful. They really helped me get my life back on track.”

Through her hard work and dedication, coupled with the support and advice offered by PiP, Mary was able to secure that all-important job she had been longing for during her time living on the streets. “I found an ad in the paper for the Certificate III course in Aged Care” she says. “I got into the course, which was full-on, but I’m so proud that I did. It was a 15-week course, full time, and involved work experience.

Mary now works in aged care as an assistant in nursing at an aged care facility in the Moreton Bay region, three or four shifts a week. “I’m so happy and my children are very proud of me. Everything has really fallen into place.” Malcolm said the whole team are incredibly proud of Mary and how much she has turned her life around. “Mary’s story is a great example of how much PiP can do for those who most need it. “Leanne and I really see some great value and success stories come out of PiP. All clients referred to us, receive a holistic approach to barriers impeding their employment or training or simply put, their integration back into society.”

Clients of the PiP program receive intensive individualised support for up to 18 months. Last year, the project service supported more than 120 people. “We really enjoy what we do and helping others get back on their feet. It’s a great program,” Malcolm said.

Mary couldn’t agree more. “The support PiP has provided to me has been brilliant,” she said. “Eighteen months ago I was down and out, and now I’m on cloud nine. It’s just amazing. I can’t sing their praises enough.” “The support of Leanne and Malcolm to me and my family has been so incredible and they were really welcoming.”

A new “Employer Resource Kit” developed by Queensland-based National Disability Coordination Officers (NDCOs), driven by STEPS is breaking new ground in disability awareness and understanding within the business community. funded NDCO program.

From the temperate Torres Strait Islands to the winter chill of Warwick, STEPS two Queensland-based National Disability Coordination Officers (NDCOs) continue to make a difference. STEPS NDCOs, Debbie Rooskov and Gary Travers, represent two of the five regions in Queensland, however STEPS’ combined area of representation spreads over half of the State.

Debbie said that the Employer Resource Kit will provide a comprehensive guide to the benefits of employing people with disabilities including tips and information that will help employers accommodate their staff. “This CD will be promoted to all Disability Employment providers and to employer groups, and we encourage everyone to burn the CD and use it when marketing to employer groups. We know it will be a useful tool,” Debbie said.

The NDCO program works towards building links between education, training and employment sectors so that people with a disability have assistance at all levels. More information is available at the NDCO Website.

The role of a carer can be challenging, balancing the demands of one’s own life with that of caring for another. Some carers are caring for multiple people and some care for others living elsewhere, travelling between two homes to manage both.

Chris, STEPS’ Coordinator of the Care for Carer’s program in the Bundaberg/Wide Bay region, said carers are a valuable, and often silent, asset to every community. She said that in their roles, carers show diversity, flexibility, spontaneity, together with the need to be highly organized, structured, on time, available, and responsive. “Carers are by far the greatest resource for support and are heard from the least,” said Chris. “Research shows us that carers are crying ‘inwardly’ not reaching out.”

Through the Care for Carers Program STEPS is developing services across the Wide Bay region, incorporating Bundaberg, North and South Burnett and Fraser Coast, to support carers improve the quality of their own lives. STEPS is providing advice and counselling, support and education and above all else, permission to have a break. The program achieved a significant milestone recently by setting up peer support and weekly individual counselling sessions in Bundaberg, Gin Gin, Maryborough and Hervey Bay. Chris said that the feedback from carers has been overwhelmingly supportive, with referrals increasing through word-of-mouth.

“One-on-one, face-to-face service provision has been the preferred mode of service provision requested by far,” she said. “Phone support and group support is on offer with plans to offer social outings in each area in the near future.”

The Care for Carers program is a joint Federal and State funded program funded through Home and Community Care (HACC), and offers a proactive support for carers, seeking to alleviate premature admittance into residential care for Care Recipients.

STEPS has come up with a computer game that not only provides enjoyment, but teaches them how to deal with life’s challenges. For high school students with disabilities, leaving school and heading into university can be daunting. So Gary Travers, STEPS’ Northern Queensland National Disability Coordination Officer (NDCO) decided to make learning how to deal with challenges more fun.

In a bid to communicate more effectively with students with disabilities, Gary has joined forces with a group of multimedia game development students from James Cook University (JCU) to create an interactive computer game called Steps For The Future. Funded by the Federal government, the game uses a futuristic storyline with information about the wide array of post-school options and support available to students with disabilities embedded.

“I’ve noted many students with disabilities had concentration difficulties when given information by traditional methods,” Gary said. “These same students talked about how much time they spend playing computer games. I thought we could put the type of message we were trying to convey into a computer game to engage them. “My initial concept was information overload and JCU lecturers and students advised that the game would not be playable or enjoyable in that format,” Gary said.

“Rather than being solely about disability issues, the game is now set in the future and traces the story of the main character who returns to his last year at high school after a jet boarding accident, which resulted in the loss of both his legs,” Gary said. “The character works hard at his studies, gets assistance from others and also helps out his group of friends in various ways. “Together this group face issues common to young people such as the pressure of study, setting goals, bullying, balancing study and parttime work, binge drinking and various disability and medical conditions.”

“The story takes the main character on to tertiary study, part-time employment and then into the job he has always wanted.” Steps For The Future was launched in March and will be circulated to tertiary education facilities and high schools. “We have already received interest for the game and the initial run of 1000 copies will be distributed across our two regions within the first two months after launch. “Because the students are young themselves, it’s not such a leap back for them to think about the style of game they enjoy or would play,” he said. “The students also bought their own slant to the storyline and their own brand of humour in parts of the game.”

The game was originally set up as a class project, however time and study commitments meant that the four students involved – James Harvey, Corey Reitano, Andrew Joy and Matthew Joy – worked directly with Gary afterwards to finish the game. “It’s one of very few, if not the only game that deals directly with disabilities and how to live and work as a person with disability,” Corey said. “It tries to lead people with disability through school and university life, which is pretty unique for a game and was a big challenge.”

Among the athletes was STEPS participant, Amy Deguara, who competes in wheelchair basketball and is currently one of the best female competitors in Queensland. Marayke, the founder of Sporting Dreams, said that the grant presented to Amy would assist with equipment, training and competition costs in Amy’s quest to become a Paralympian. “Amy is a very talented athlete, who has demonstrated a commitment to training and has achieved remarkable success,” Marayke said. “This grant will allow her to focus on training and competing as she works towards her goal of competing at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

STEPS featured prominently at the ceremony which was held at the University of the Sunshine Coast late last year, with STEPS sponsoring one of the grants. Amy was presented with her grant by Marayke and STEPS Board President Carmel Crouch.

A Sunshine Coast local who took up wheelchair basketball three years ago, Amy has gone on to gain selection with the Queensland Rockets development team. Amy, who was born with Spina Bifida, travels extensively for her sport, and with the support of STEPS, is currently completing her diploma in community welfare. She recently began work with Wheelchair Basketball in Brisbane.

Marayke Jonkers, a three-time Paralympian, joined the staff at STEPS last year, and said she is enjoying her role assisting university graduates achieve their career goals. “As a graduate with a disability myself I know just how life-changing it can be when an employer focuses on ability instead of disability,” she said. “It’s great to be working with graduates on career planning, job searching and job support – I see in them the same passion for their work that I have for my swimming.”

Marayke won a silver medal in her sole event at the Beijing Paralympic Games – the 150m Individual Medley. She also won two bronze medals at Athens 2004 Paralympics and placed 4th and 6th at her first Paralympics in Sydney 2000. She is now training for London in 2012.

Now aged 26, Heidi (pictured above left) finds the condition is a major hindrance when it comes to writing those all-important lecture notes by hand. However, last year, Heidi was one of two USC students presented with the inaugural STEPS Bursary, of $1,000 each.

With the bursary Heidi purchased a notebook computer, which she states makes her life a great easier as “it’s less painful and time-consuming to type notes during lectures than to write them by hand ”

I started university I completed my first year full-time and by the end of the first semester I knew that social work was the Heidi says. My life experiences bring understanding of hardship, discrimination and lack of advocacy and I felt like I understood a fair bit about the tough situations life sometimes throws at people. I can develop my interest in the welfare of others and help people strive to empower themselves by reaching their goals.”

Another part of what made me go to university was that I was working in retail all day, climbing ladders, and it was becoming too it was taking its toll on my body. I also felt unsatisfied; I knew I was not fulfilling my interest and ”

Heidi says she applied for the STEPS bursary during her second year of university. A panel from the University of the Sunshine Coast judge the successful applicants from a range of predetermined s  Disability office.

I work closely with the disability officer at the university who understands my case, which I find extremely helpful on a practical said Heidi.

“I strongly recommend others to apply for the bursary it has definitely helped me and made it easier to complete my studies,” Heidi says. “It’s amazing how beneficial and encouraging a little help can be and for this I am very grateful to STEPS.”

A wide variety of art pieces, created by community members as part of STEPS Indigenous Dementia Awareness Program, were combined to form the Anukana Exhibition, hosted at the STEPS Gin Gin office.

The exhibition, which included art, sculpture, games, storytelling, song and dance, was opened by Elder Marina Anderson from the Wakka Wakka tribe. STEPS’ Dementia Awareness Program started in July last year, seeking to spread awareness of the condition, and to motivate individuals to maintain a healthy mind through various preventative measures.

Through the course of the Program it became apparent that a lot of important traditions and recollections were at risk of being lost due to the affects of dementia on the indigenous population. In an ironic twist, a program assisting people struggling with memory loss will ensure generations to come will not forget their forebears’ culture.

STEPS Community Awareness Campaign Officer, Brendon Searle, said that the artwork emerged from fortnightly activities that were designed to stimulate the minds of participants and inspire ‘reminiscence’. “STEPS thanks all our participants who have contributed to the program over the past few months, and our priceless volunteers for their valuable assistance.”