Who is Liberty Community Connect? 

Well, without reading the brochure and after spending under 30 minutes with CEO Allan, I had a pretty good idea.

They are a passionate, hardworking, driven team that doesn’t just discuss diversity and inclusion; they live it daily.

We were there to talk to a staff member Daniel, and while there, we got the pleasure of chatting with Allan and Rowena.

It’s such an inspiring feeling when you hear the passion, not in words, but the emotions and actions to help others live their best independent lives.

Allan had decided they wanted to attract people with employment challenges and find roles in which they could excel. If that meant a few modifications or a buddy system for an additional sense of support, then so be it.

Allan said, “It is essential that they have their own voice. They need to feel comfortable asking if they need help or can’t adapt, to be empowered, independent and contribute in their own right. They don’t need staff to try to help without asking if it’s needed.

Daniel has proven himself very capable; with a few simple modifications can drive and pick up clients. In the 4 months since he started, he has had various jobs that make him of great value. Daniel also assists in Admin, Domestic services and the Centre. Initially, Daniel wanted an admin role, but after some discussion, he has undertaken a traineeship. A certificate III in independent disability support.

We asked Allan if he recalled the interview when he first met Daniel and how we would describe him. Allan said, “I would call him a very articulate and passionate person; he was driven to find a job with purpose and value. I would also have to say he has an engaging personality and makes a genuine effort to help people; he’s proactive.

Daniel has been very open about the fact he doesn’t consider he has a disability. I would have to agree; he got the job because he can do the job”.

Rowena mentioned that Daniel had been buddied up with Mary, and she describes him “as an absolute hoot”.

Allan said; “they had initially taken on 10 trainees. While challenging, everyone learnt a lot from the exercise. While not all new staff worked out as some did not find the roles the right fit for them, overall, it has been a resounding success.