By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Vikki Ellis reckons she would be tearing her hair out if it wasn’t for her packing job at the Endeavour Foundation in Norlane.
The Geelong West mother of three and grandmother to five still loves her job after working in the supported environment for eight years.
“I couldn’t stand just sitting at home, twiddling my fingers and looking at four walls,” Vikki said.
“I love coming to work because all my friends are here and they are a great bunch of people.”
“It’s my second home.”
Vikki said she had “learned a lot” from the work, including completing a food handling course.
She nominated attention to detail as the key skill in her work.
Vikki will be one of the full-time and part-time staff on hand for the Endeavour Foundation open day on 14 April.
Commercial Manager Anthony Tavelli said the foundation was opening its doors for the community to find out more about meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
The roles offered the chance to develop new skills, grow in confidence and make friends in a supportive environment, he said.
“Supported employment provides a great way for people with a disability to contribute to the local economy and enhance their level of involvement in the community.
“Along with valuable hands-on employment experience, people with a disability have the opportunity to gain recognised qualifications and grow confidence by gaining new skills.
“A variety of employment opportunities exist within general and food packing, including the roles of food packer, warehouse worker and machine operator.
“If you’re15 or older, receive the Disability Support Pension and want to contribute to your community, we can offer full time or part-time opportunities depending on personal preference and the type of employment you’re best suited for.”
Mr Tavelli said Endeavour Foundation’s Open Day would run from 1pm on 14 April, with a free sausage sizzle.
Anyone who wants more information should phone Charmaine Jewel on 0400 772 754, he said.
