Joy has been working with Interchange for almost 2 years, helping the people she supports work towards attaining the perfect job for them. She is an absolute superstar when it comes to helping people discover their own unique skills and talents, and then identify, or even create, a job or small business that fits them perfectly.
Category: Stories
Support legend Vanessa from our Rockingham Neighbourhood began her journey with Interchange almost 2 years ago. The support worker is well known to go above and beyond her job role, tailoring her support exactly to each individual to make sure every person gets the best service possible and achieves their personal goals.
Our CEO Justin O’Meara Smith celebrates his 3 year anniversary with our organisation – perfect timing to have a closer look at the person who steers the ship at Interchange and just LOVES a good (or bad) dad joke.
"I had a car crash in 2013 and couldn’t walk for nearly a year. I got around in a wheelchair or was carried around in the house by my partner. I realised how difficult it must be for others who had to live like that permanently. So I wanted to give something back."
About a year ago Shay moved out of her mother’s house. She wanted to live her own life and make her own decisions. Shay is now self-sufficient and living independently. With a little support, she manages her own laundry, shopping, cleaning and meal preparation.
James has been part of the Interchange family for about 5 years, and for him the organisation and the things we do stand out because we are putting our motto "Everyone belongs" into action every single day.
Encouraged by his support worker Regan started attending the Fremantle Men’s Shed eighteen months ago. Since then, he’s developed a passion for woodwork and his skills and social life are flourishing.
"If we took time to listen and understand the people we support, or any disabled person in our lives, we could earn and gain a lot of wisdom as they have lived the experience.” - Judith Obai
"I love going out with my support staff to listen to live music, dance and bowl." - Joel has been with Interchange since 2008. Requiring twenty-four-hour support, Joel lives in his own home and loves his independence. Although he does not communicate through spoken words, Joel is a man who thrives on making his own decisions and has chosen a Shared Management arrangement employing his own team.
Ainsley Swankie, Interchange’s passionate Midland Neighbourhood Team Leader has been nominated by TWO fellow staff members this month, as well...