Disability Educator, Denis Carolin commenced his journey with OC Connections as part of his student placement. He enjoyed his time, the people and the organisation, so applied for a role.
During his time at OC Connections, Denis has worked in a variety of roles: including providing support to residents in our supported accommodation, day support and a recreation program.
As a disability educator and key worker, Denis works with families and participants to determine the best supports to reach a participant’s goals.
He gets the most enjoyment when he’s out in the community supporting participants to explore new areas of the community and developing new skills to help them live life to the full.
“I love it when I am able to support a participant to find the confidence and courage to overcome their hesitancy in accessing certain areas of the community,” he says.
Denis is particularly passionate and proud of his work supporting participants with behaviours of concern to see them flourish in the community. “With the right support, participants with behaviours of concern can be supported to access the community in a way that is safe, an enable them to be active in the community’ he says.
When asked what is important in supporting participants, Denis says communication is key – communicating with participants, family members and other staff to ensure the needs and goals of the participant are met. In addition, he appreciates the need for continual training of staff to ensure they are well prepared and confident in supporting participants to reach their goals.
The Australian Government will soon review the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission, including employment services and opportunities for people living with disability. Around 16,000 people living with disabilities work as Supported Employees across Australia. Working in Supported Employment makes a significant difference in the lives of people with disability – engaging in work helps […]
“Expression” Exhibition at Cardinia Cultural Centre
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In July, two residents from our Oakleigh Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) made the trip up to Echuca to participate in a game of footy with Moama Rockets! Tim and Bart are members of the Mazenod Panthers in Glen Waverly, an all-abilities football club that goes up against teams from around Victoria. They woke up bright […]