One of Gilmore’s long standing and successful employers of people with disability, Yumaro, has proudly showcased its recent upgrades in Moruya today. The facility now has the means to employ 85 people with a disability, and provide goods and services to the broader community, like recycling, nursery, embroidery, wooden products, linen repairs and hire services. Federal Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis said providing people with a disability the necessary support to help maintain a near normal lifestyle and become more self-sufficient is crucial in developing a productive and inclusive society. “Australian Disability Enterprises (ADE) like Yumaro play an integral role across Gilmore, they are engaging those who have special needs, and they help those become valued and contributing members of society,” she said. “I commend Yumaro on their achievements to date, I will continue to advocate for people with a disability and support ADEs,” Mrs Sudmalis said.
Above : “The smiles on the faces of Yumaro’s supported employees are a testament to their organisation,” Ann Sudmalis. The Hon Jane Prentice, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, said Yumaro is a wonderful example of how ADEs benefit the community. “The smiles on the faces of Yumaro’s supported employees are a testament to their organisation,” she said. “ADEs play a very important role in providing an opportunity for people with disability to contribute to the workforce. As well, they are a place of social interaction and friendship.”
Above: Yumaro CEO, Mark Brantingham guides the The Hon Jane Prentice and Federal Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis through the Yumaro facility showcasing the wide variety of activities and enterprises being run by the organisation.
Mark Brantingham CEO of Yumaro added: "Yumaro is working hard to assist local people with disabilities under the NDIS. We have over 120 people with a disability employed in over 10 social enterprises from Narooma to Milton. "Beyond employment we are offering innovative learning programs such as Living skills courses, leadership training, LLN and Fit and Active programs. And our new home and community support service is specialising in matching people with a disability to support workers that are well suited to their needs and interests. "It is an exciting time for people with a disability, the NDIS means people now have more choice and options for finding the supports they need to live a good life." Mark said. Yumaro has been a pioneer in the sector, with a support network established at three different sites spread strategically throughout Gilmore.
Above: The staff and workers were delighted with the Assistant Minister's visit, proud of their accomplishments and the facilities they have created.
Moruya based employee Madison Howard-Windley said Yumaro has enabled her to contribute to society, develop her skill set and be more self-supportive. “I love coming to Yumaro for work because it is a place where people with a disability can be their self,” she said. “I learn new skills every day and I feel very proud of the work that we do here and the important products we make for local people and other big businesses like Bunnings. “Working at Yumaro also improves my social life, every day I get to work with my friends,” said Ms Howard-Windley. Consultation is underway to further expand Yumaro’s accommodation services throughout Gilmore. Yumaro is a provider of employment for people with a disability in the Eurobodalla and Shoalhaven regions. Further details can be found at http://www.yumaro.com.au
