Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and Meegan Fitzharris MLA joined local entrepreneur Sam Agyemang today to launch a new online campaign supporting people with disability to achieve their ambitions.
Ms Fitzharris and Mr Stuart kicked off the second phase of INVOLVE – Canberra Disability Commitment, a statement of intent for the ACT on how the community can work together to create a place where all people with disability are included and supported.
“INVOLVE is a great initiative that seeks to engage all Canberrans to include people with disability and support them to make their dreams a reality,” said Ms Fitzharris.
“The personal ambitions that have so far been identified through INVOLVE are admirable. They cover personal achievements as well as aspirations for the broader community. There is an artist looking for opportunities to exhibit, a business leader asking landlords to think differently about renting options and a community leader seeking to educate retailers about access.”
Five ambitions are being trialled and are now online at www.involvecbr.com.au. People can connect with the five individuals and find out ways to support their ambitions and follow their progress.
The Canberra Raiders has taken the lead by contracting Donkey Wash, a social enterprise run by Sam Agyemang. Mr Agyemang, who has Autism, runs a laundry service for clients including the Canberra Raiders and said his involvement with the Canberra Raiders had generated interest in the community.
“I like telling people about my business,” Mr Agyemang said. “People are happy when I tell them I do washing for the Raiders. I like talking to the Raiders.”
INVOLVE is part of ACT Government’s commitment to making Canberra an inclusive community where everyone can participate and reach their full potential.
“This is just the start of this Government’s work to harness support and mobilise the community to take action to achieve an inclusive Canberra,” said Ms Fitzharris.
“We are planning to open up this platform towards the end of 2015 to allow more Canberrans with disability to post their personal ambitions online. This initiative empowers people with disability to have greater control and choice with decision-making.”
For more information about INVOLVE and the Canberra Disability Commitment, visit www.involvecbr.com.au
