Improving IDRS Reach, Connection and Service to First Nations People
At IDRS we are very proud and honoured to support so many First Nations people. Each year we are able to connect with more communities and develop trust for our service amongst the communities.
First Nation Clients
JAS Supports
Legal Advices
Parents’ Program
Aboriginal Engagement Worker:
Sam Valentine
Warami!
My name is Sam Valentine, I am a proud Wiradjuri woman who was born and raised on Dharug Country.
I thank my elders of both Wiradjuri and Dharug for the history, stories and lessons passed to me and my brothers and sisters.
I bring to IDRS my extensive experience in the disability sector, including the Disability Employment Services (DES), supporting the transition into the NDIS, School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES), Supported Independent Living (SIL) , NDIS Community Participant and In-home Supports.
My day to day work includes:
- Supporting IDRS staff and volunteers with Aboriginal client and staff engagement;
- Raising awareness of IDRS support services within Aboriginal organisations and communities.to create referral pathways;
- Facilitating cultural education to IDRS staff and volunteers;
- Working with the RAP team to implement our RAP initiatives, including to develop an Aboriginal employment strategy;
- Listening and learning how we can come together to best support people in need of our service.
Aboriginal Employment Principles
IDRS are committed to following the Aboriginal employment principles for our First Nations staff.
GURUMBALA GABANMALA (Connect and Heal)
GURUMBALA GABANMALA is a piece of art that was commissioned by IDRS in 2020 by Miss Donna Gayford McLaren. This piece tells the story of an Aboriginal person’s journey towards healing through support provided by IDRS and through connection with support services and community.
GURUMBALA GABANMALA plays features in all IDRS First Nations promotional material and is on display in our head office in Castlereagh St Sydney.
13YARN
To find out more visit www.13yarn.org.au
