Our stories...our successes2011-2013

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Table of contents04 Ourrecentachievements

05 AmessagefromourChairandManagingDirector

06 TheCommunitySolutionsGroup

07 Aboutus

08 Morethanservices...ourstrategyataglance

10 NorthQueensland...ourservices,storiesandsuccesses

12 CentralQueensland...ourservices,storiesandsuccesses

16 WideBay...ourservices,storiesandsuccesses

18 SunshineCoast/Caboolture...ourservices,storiesandsuccesses

20 Howwemakeadifferenceinregionalcommunities

22 About‘TeamComSol’

23 Celebratinglongservice

25 The‘TeamComSolWay’

26 OurPeopleinAction(OPIA)Awards

28 Communityinitiatives

30 Givingback...ourFoundationmakesadifference

32 Ourpartners,supportersandfundingagencies

34 Ourservicefootprint...townbytown

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Community Solutions is a public benevolent institution – a not-for-profit organisation providing direct relief to people with high needs. These people may be experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness.

Community Solutions provides a unique and effective approach to not only dealing with disadvantage, but also creating opportunities for individuals, families and local communities in regional Australia.

A message from our Chair and Managing Director

Our recent achievements2012 AustrAliAn institute of MAnAgeMent AwArds

recipient –MedalforManagementExcellence2012(DavidCurd–ManagingDirector)

finalist – NotforProfitManageroftheYear2012(NatashaRead–GroupExecutiveManager)

2012 sunshine CoAst Business AwArds

winner – Lifestylecategory

2011 QueenslAnd sAfer CoMMunities AwArds

recipient -EncouragementAward(StreetAngels)

2011 AustrAliAn institute of MAnAgeMent AwArds

finalist –NotforProfitManageroftheYear(PatBurke-GroupExecutiveManager)

finalist –NotforProfitManageroftheYear(DaveFacer-ServiceLeader)

2011 ergon energy Business exCellenCe AwArds (CentrAl QueenslAnd)

winner – MajorBusinessoftheYearAward

winner –ContributiontotheCommunityAward

winner –OutstandingBusinessoftheYearAward

finalist –InnovativeBusinessoftheYearAward

2011 BMA AwArds

recipient –SilverAward(CommunitySolutions,MRAEL,LACBlackwaterandBMAPartners)

TheCommunitySolutionsGroupcontinuestoevolveasadynamic, contemporary and multi-faceted organisation,committedtoprovidingdiversifiedservices,communityassetsandproductivepartnershipsinregionalQueenslandcommunities.

Our400+committed, skilled and experienced staffandvolunteerscollectivelyembraceourTeamComSolcultureandaspiretostrengthenandenhancelocalservicesintheregionalcommunitiesinwhichtheyliveandwork.

Ourinvestmentincritical social infrastructureunderpinsco-locatedservicesandisevidentinthedevelopmentandoperationoftheSunshineCoastCommunityCapitalCentre,MaryboroughCommunityCapitalCentreandWhitsundayPlace.

Thesecentres,eachtailoredtotheuniqueneedsoftheirlocalarea,enhancethecapacityforcreatingcommunitycapitalviaa“onestopshop”serviceenvironment.

Throughpartnerships and amalgamations,westrengthenregionalsocialserviceproviderswhoarefacingsignificantchangeinoursector.Throughtheintegrationofservicesandthecombinationofresourcesandexpertise,sharedvisionsarecreatedandincreasedefficienciesareachieved.

TherespectedserviceorganisationsandgoodpeoplewhonowformtheCommunitySolutionsGrouparewellplacedtomakeapositive and sustainable difference inlocalcommunities,inpartnershipwithcommittedcommunity,governmentandbusinessagencies.

Welookforwardtoourongoingdevelopmentandgenuineengagementwithregionalcommunities,whichisonlymadepossiblethroughthecollectiveeffortsofourpeople,communitypartnersandfundingagencies.

Togetherforbetter!

ian Coombe – group Chair david Curd – Managing director

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Proserpine

Moranbah

emeraldrockhampton

gladstone

yeppoon

Sunshine Coast and Caboolture

Central QLD

MaryboroughHervey BayGayndah

Kawananambour

Biloela

Bundaberg

Bowen

Cannonvale

North QLD

Mackay

Wide Bay

Caboolture

11,000+ clients across our range of services

400+ ‘Team ComSol’ staff and volunteers

23 years of experience

19 dedicated service sites

17+ regional towns supported

4 service regions

About usThe Community Solutions GroupEstablishedin1997,CommunitySolutionsGroupLtd(formerlyCommunitySolutionsInc)isaQueensland-basednot-for-profitorganisation,providinghighqualityanddiversifiedservicestoregionalcommunities.In2009/2010,CommunitySolutionsIncamalgamatedwithCommunityEmploymentOptionsInctoexpandgeographicreachandserviceofferings.KeyservicesnowincludeDisability,Employment,Training,Youth,HealthandWellbeing,andHomeandCommunitySupportServicesaswellasSocialEnterpriseprojects.

CommunityAssetsLtdoperatesasaspecialpurposeentitytodevelopandmanagecommunityassetsincludingproperty,buildingsandequipmenttosupportCommunitySolutions’servicedeliveryandprovideadditionalresourcesinregionalcommunities.

Establishedin1990,CommunityEmploymentOptionsIncwasarespectedandlong-servingproviderofdisabilityemploymentservicesintheCentralQueenslandandWideBayregions.ThecurrentCommunitySolutionsGroupLtdwascreatedastheresultofa2009/2010mergerbetweenCommunityEmploymentOptionsIncandCommunitySolutionsInc.Followingthemerger,CommunityEmploymentOptionsInctodayoperatestheCoastalRecoveryrecyclingserviceinRockhamptonasaCommunitySolutions’socialenterprise.

Inearly2012,CommunitySolutionsGroupLtdwelcomedCompassWhitsundaysInctotheGroup,followingaformalamalgamationprocess.Establishedin1994,CompassWhitsundaysisakeyproviderofessentialHomeandAgedCare,RespiteandDisabilityServicesintheWhitsundayregion.

Alsoin2012,CommunitySolutionsGroupLtdamalgamatedwithMackay-basedPioneerEmploymentServiceInc.Establishedin1991,PioneerEmploymentServiceisahighly-respecteddisabilityemploymentserviceproviderwithover20years’experience.

July2012welcomedanamalgamationwithhighly-respected,HerveyBay-baseddisabilitysupportorganisationBaySupportServicesGroupInc.Since1990,BaySupportServiceshasspecialisedintheprovisionofqualitysupportforpeoplewithadisabilitytoremainlivingintheirownhomeandcommunityasindependentlyaspossible.

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More than services... our strategy at a glance

Powerful partnershipsOur commitment to forming partnerships and facilitating amalgamations is motivated by the benefits that can be achieved for regions and local communities when the resources of like-minded organisations are combined, services are enhanced and assets are developed.

Community assetsA key component of our strategy is the development of critical social infrastructure to underpin quality service delivery in the local communities in which we operate.

L-R:SunshineCoastCommunityCapitalCentre,MaryboroughCommunityCapitalCentreandWhitsundayPlace.

Good governanceAs a public benevolent institution providing government-funded services to communities with high needs, we are acutely aware of our responsibility, accountability and obligation to operate with sound governance, prudent management and service quality.

this is achieved via:–TheAustralianGovernanceSystem(TAGS

TM)–StrategicPlanningandReview–RiskManagement–QualityandPolicyFramework–WorkplaceHealthandSafety–DirectorReviewandDevelopment

Diversified servicesThe provision of diversified and integrated services ensures that our clients, their families and the regional communities in which they live can benefit from support and resources that provide a holistic response to complex needs.

–EmploymentServices–TrainingServices–YouthServices–HealthandWellbeingServices–HomeandCommunitySupportServices–SocialEnterprise

Synergy & sustainability

Enhanced community capacity

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Our services, stories and successes

Bowen (including Collinsville)on the cusp of a major construction phase following the approval of two nearby coal terminals, Bowen is set for a significant boost in entry level employment.

ServicesJobServicesAustraliaandDisabilityEmploymentServices.

Matthew overcomes adversity and gains renewed hope for the future

Success storyInrealisinghisdreamofjoiningtheDefenceForce,Matthewhascertainlyfacedhisshareofroadblocks.AfterhisGrade10Certificate(apre-requisiteforentrytotheForce)wasdestroyedinacyclone,MatthewwasadvisedbytheEducationDepartmentthatacopywasnolongeravailable.ButwiththesupportofourJobServicesAustraliateam,Matthewhasbeenassistedthroughthenecessaryrecruitmentprocessandreceivedanoutstanding12joboffersbetweentheArmy,NavyandAirforce.

Withrenewedinspiration,MatthewhasalsobeensupportedtocompletehisYear10equivalentatTAFE,andisbackontracktoachievehislong-termgoal!

Cannonvale / Airlie Beachgateway to the great Barrier reef, tropical Cannonvale is surrounded by natural beauty, and boasts many unique local communities.

ServicesJobServicesAustralia,DisabilityEmploymentServices,DisabilityCare,HomeandCommunityCare,Communitydevelopment,CommunitytrainingandGreenExpresstoSuccess.

Vibrant supported housing option provides alternative to aged care facility

Success storyDylan(left)andTylerwerethefirsttenantstomoveintothenew,purpose-builtsupportedaccommodationatWhitsundayPlaceinearly2012.Designedtopermanentlyhouseuptofourresidentswithadisability,theGovernment-fundedunitsprovideanalternativeforpeoplewhomayotherwiseentertheagedcaresystemprematurely,andallowfortheprovisionof24hoursupportinself-containedapartmentswithstaffbedrooms.

Additionaltothefourpermanentresidences,anewreplicafacility,fundedbyCompassWhitsundays,enablestheenhancedprovisionofrespitecare.

Proserpinethe hub of the sugar industry, Proserpine annually welcomes large volumes of seasonal workers.

ServicesJobServicesAustraliaandDisabilityEmploymentServices.

Wrap around service model gives Greg a new reason to smile and a positive future

Success storySincevoluntarilycommencingwithCommunitySolutions,Greghasovercomeanumberofpersonalchallengesincludingdepressionandunemployment.

Onceatriskofhomelessnessandinneedofmedicalcare,Greghassincereceivednumerousreferrals,intensivesupport,financialassistanceandaccommodation.Furthermore,hehascompletedaCertificateIIinSecurityOperationsandobtainedhissecuritylicence,resultingincasual,ongoingemploymentinthesecurityindustry.

Mackay (including Sarina and Dysart)economically strong and vibrant, Mackay offers a diverse range of employment and social opportunities with future growth supported by services linked to the resources sector.

ServicesJobServicesAustralia,DisabilityEmploymentServices,YouthConnections,GetSetForWork,ProductivityPlacesProgram,DisabilityandCommunityCareServicesandMackay’sGotTalent.

From unemployed training participant to sought after graduate – Natasha realises her dream

Success storyAftercompletingafundedGreenArmyplacement,jobseekerNatashafoundherselffieldingmultiplejoboffers.Utilisingherpracticalexperience,NatashasecuredemploymentwiththeDepartmentofEnvironmentandResourceManagement-controllingburnsandchasingactivefireedges.Furthermore,Natashahasbeenapproachedbynumerousotheragenciesregardingadditionalopportunities.

North Queensland

“Community Solutions assisted me with the training I needed to get employment and also helped me to get my house. You gave me my life back and I can’t thank you enough.”

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Central Queensland Our services, stories and successes

Yeppoonthis vibrant, coastal urban centre is rapidly growing due to popularity with those seeking a “sea change”.

ServicesDisabilityEmploymentServicesandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

New home brings new opportunities for Gillian

Success storyTheuncertaintiesofrelocatingarenowadistantmemoryforYeppoonresidentGillian.AftermovingtothecoastaltownfromToowoomba,whereshevolunteeredfortheChristianOutreachCollegeforover20years,Gillianhasbeensurroundedbynewfriendsandopportunities.

WiththehelpofourDisabilityEmploymentServicesteam,GillianhassecuredplacementswithboththeSalvationArmyKidsClubandC&KEarlyChildhoodLearning.WorkingwiththechildrenispayingoffforGillian,whoisimprovingherownconfidencesignificantlyandregularlyacceptingnewchallenges.Gillianisalsoimprovingherreadingskillsvialiteracytraining,toenablemoreofherfavouriteactivity–readingstoriestothechildren.

Rockhamptonthe major service centre for the burgeoning Central Queensland area, rockhampton boasts a diversified economy with particular strength in the retail, health/community, education, primary production and manufacturing sectors.

ServicesDisabilityEmploymentServices,NationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram,GetSetForWork,CoastalRecovery,RockhamptonPCYCandRugbyParkrestorationsandKidsandYouthActiveInclusionProject.

Modified sporting activities promote social inclusion for people with a disability

Success storyOfferedduringDisabilityActionWeek,arangeoffunandadaptedactivitiesincludinghandcycling,Zumbaandarchery,aswellasnutritionalandleadershipprograms,haveencouragedincreasedcommunityparticipationforpeoplewithadisability.

Inparticular,theseactivitiessoughttoprovidechildrenaged14andoverwitheducationalandlifeskillsthatwillincreaseself-esteem,confidenceandabilitytointeractwithothers.

Gladstonethis Central Queensland town is undergoing significant changes in the labour market landscape, with industry growth providing an abundance of employment opportunities.

ServicesDisabilityEmploymentServices,PersonalHelpersandMentorsProgramandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

Art facilitates mental health recovery and community engagement

Success storyAgroupactivityundertakenbyPersonalHelpersandMentors(PHaMs)programparticipantshascreatedaninnovativeandsymbolicmethodofspreadingmentalhealthawareness.

Thepapermacheman,knownas“Murphy”,promotedmentalhealthattheGladstoneHarbourFestivalviamantrasplayedoverspeakersandprintedaffirmations,whichspilledfromhismindintothecrowd.Helpers,manyofwhomhadexperiencedmentalillness,walkedalongsideMurphyinshirtsthatsportedtheslogan“Getup,getdressedanddoyourbest.”

BiloelaBoasting healthy cotton, sorghum and wheat industries, and close to the Callide Power station and coal mines, Biloela is located within Queensland’s Banana shire.

ServicesDisabilityEmploymentServicesandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

Extensive job matching sets Jason on the path to sustainable employment

Success storyAftershorttermrolespushingtrolleysandcompletingad-hocgardeningtasks,Jasonwasunsureofwherehisfuturewasheaded.ButhavingreceivedsupportviatheDisabilityEmploymentServices,the27-year-old,whohasanintellectualdisabilityandlimitedsocialandcommunicationskills,hasnowfoundhisfeetattheBiloelaPoliceCitizen’sYouthClub.Jasonisthrivinginhisgardeningrole,isanextremelyvaluedmemberoftheteamandhasdevelopedalargenumberofflourishingfriendships.

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Emerald and Moranbahnestled in the Central Queensland highlands, emerald’s economy is based on the surrounding cotton, citrus, grape, grain and coal mining industries.

ServicesDisabilityEmploymentServices,GetSetforWork,GreenArmy,DisabilityandCommunityCareServicesandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

At-risk youth assisted to re-engage with community and education

Success storyAftercommencingtheGetSetForWorkprogramwithlittleideaabouthisfuture,Jessegainedthenecessaryqualificationstosecurenotonlyajob,butatradethatheenjoys.Jessehassinceobtainedhiswhitecard,improvedhisinterpersonalskills,learnedhowtosucceedininterviewsanddevelopedapresentableresume;culminatinginemploymentasaLaboureratEmeraldTrussandWallFrames.Inadditiontotheemployment,Jessehasgainedselfdeterminationandmotivationtosucceed–bothvaluabletraitsthathewillcarryfortheremainderofhislife.

Our services, stories and successes

“Community Solutions didn’t only find me employment… they helped me get into other programs in the area to help me be to more social and gain new friends.”

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Wide Bay Our services, stories and successes

Bundabergin the heart of a rich horticultural belt, Bundaberg is home to many of Australia’s smallest fine crops and plays a significant role in global manufacture and industry.

ServicesYouthSupportCoordinatorprogram,PartnershipBrokersandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

Lessons learned through helping others in need

Success storyAgroupofBundaberg’smostthoughtfulteenshavegiventhegiftofhopetothoseexperiencinghardship.

Wantingtomakeadifferenceinthelivesofpeopleinneed,theYouthSupportCoordinatorprogramparticipantsvolunteeredtheirtimeandemployedtheircreativitytomakehomemadeChristmasgiftsforthepeopleatEdonPlaceDomesticViolenceRefuge.Inspiredtocreateuniquegifts,theteamcraftedinspirationalitemsincludingtherapyrocks,dreamcatchersandjourneycardsfortherecordingofhopesandgoals.

Gayndahthe oldest town in Queensland, gayndah is renowned for its high citrus yield.

ServicesJobServicesAustralia,DisabilityEmploymentServicesandNationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram.

Noel returns to his community roots

Success storyAfterthreedecadesservingtheGayndahcommunityasaFuneralDirectorandlateraHotelManager,Noelwasakeylocalidentity.Sowhensevereosteo-arthritisforcedhisretirementduringrehabilitation,hesethimselfagoaltoovercomehisillnessandreturntohisworkandcommunityconnections.

ViaourDisabilityEmploymentServicesprogram,NoelcommencedworkwithCensusbeforereturningtoCommunitySolutionsparttime,eventuallyincreasinghishourstobecomeafulltime,valuedmemberoftheteamandanintrinsicmemberofhislocalcommunity.

Hervey Baywhere iconic fraser island meets the great Barrier reef; hervey Bay is a renowned tourist destination for whale watchers and a popular place for migrating southerners in retirement.

ServicesJobServicesAustralia,DisabilityEmploymentServices,PersonalHelpersandMentorsProgram,PartnershipBrokers,NationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgram,CommunityAssetServices,GetSetForWork,ProductivityPlacesProgramandDisabilityCare.

Empowering communication after decades of silence

Success storyFor29years,TonySummervillehadbeenunabletocommunicatewiththosearoundhimduetohisacuteCerebralPalsy.However,followingmanyyearsofintensephysicaltherapyandthesupportofhisfriendsandsupportworkers,Tonyisenjoyinganewwayoflife.Thetalentedwriterisnowusingacommunicationboardtoconverse,aswellastowritepoetryandshortstories.Furthermore,Tonyisencouragedandassistedtosharehisexperiencesandlessonswithothersinsimilarsituations,viaasilent“ChatGroup”.

MaryboroughQueensland’s “heritage City” boasts beautiful heritage listed-buildings and a strong manufacturing, agricultural, timber and fishing industry.

ServicesJobServicesAustralia,DisabilityEmploymentServices,GetSetForWork,PersonalHelpersandMentorsProgram,NationalDisabilityCoordinationOfficerProgramandCommunityAssetServices.

Holistic range of services take jobseeker full circle

Success storyAwarmnatureand“cando”attitudesetLeesaapartfromherjob-seekingpeerswhenshecommencedwithourJobServicesAustraliaprogram.Itwasn’tlongbeforeLeesa’senthusiasmwonoverherEmploymentAdvisor;leadingtoeventualemploymentasamemberoftheComSolteam!

Withveryfewadministrationskillsafteracareerinhairdressing,LeesautilisedarangeofCommunitySolutions’diversifiedservicesandundertooktrainingandmentoringactivitiestobecomeakeyplayerintheMaryboroughteamaswellasthewidercommunity.

“Working with such a generous team to provide gifts for women and children who have gone through so much was extremely rewarding. Creating the gifts for Edon Place gave me the chance to provide service to the community in which I live.”

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Sunshine Coast and Caboolture

Kawanahome to significant Council facilities, the region’s largest sporting stadium, schools and a rapidly-growing business precinct, Kawana is the site of the sunshine Coast university hospital zone and is at the heart of business and community development on the sunshine Coast.

ServicesProductivityPlacesProgram,AustralianApprenticeshipsAccessProgram,FocusedEmploymentServices,FamilyWellbeingProgram,TimeforChange,RaveSafe,StreetAngels,YouthSupportCoordinatorProgram,LakeKawanaCommunityGarden,CommunityAssetServices,AustralianSecondarySchoolsAlcoholandDrugsSurvey,BranchintoPowerandFirstYearApprenticeshipPilot.

Animals offer alternative education method

Success storyDespitetheoldadagethatwarnsnevertoworkwithchildrenoranimals,aSunshineCoastprogramhasteamedat-riskyouthandhorseswithoutstandingresults.

Theeight-week,equine-assistedlearningprogramprovidedYouthSupportCoordinatorprogramparticipantsatthreehighschoolswiththeopportunitytolearnvaluablelifelessonsincludingselfconfidence,communicationskillsandmotivation.

Nambourone of the sunshine Coast’s oldest and fastest growing districts, nambour is currently undergoing a period of rejuvenation. with a strong community focus, nambour has a reputation for establishing community-driven activities through creative pursuits.

ServicesCirclesofSupport(Youth).

Expanding services to a new client base

Success storyAnewly-fundedyouthprogramhasenabledCommunitySolutionstoopenitsdoorsandservicestoanewcommunity.CirclesofSupport–Youth(COSY)isnowbeingofferedfromtheSunshineCoast’sfirstsatelliteofficeattheNambourCommunityCentre.

Thisexpansionhasfacilitatedtheenhancementofrelationshipswithlocalcommunityagenciesandnewcollaborationstosupportyoungpeopleatriskofhomelessnessand/orinvolvementintheYouthJusticesystem.Withtwopermanentandtwocasualstaff,COSYoffersintensivecasemanagement,groupprogramsandlatenight,on-streetoutreachtoyoungpeopleaged10-18.

Our services, stories and successes

Caboolturelocated centrally on the road and rail corridor that connects Brisbane and the sunshine Coast, Caboolture is characterised by rapid urban growth and a blend of industry with traditional dairy and small crop farming.

ServicesYouthSupportCoordinatorProgram,CabooltureCellVisitorProgram.

New service supports Indigenous people in need

Success storyServicesdeliveredintheCabooltureareahaveexpandedduringthepast12monthswiththeinclusionoftheCellVisitorprogram.CellVisitorisdeliveredinpartnershipwithIndigenousorganisationMurriWatch,andoperatesfromtheCaboolturewatchhouse.TheprogramofferssupportandadvocacyforIndigenouspeopledetainedinthewatchhouse.CellVisitor,aswellasourYouthSupportCoordinatorservicesatBribieIslandStateHighSchool,willcomplementtheDisabilityEmploymentServicesthatwillcommenceinCabooltureearlyin2013.

“As a new member of Team ComSol, it has been rewarding to utilise my professional experience to shape and embed a new youth program within the Nambour community. This opportunity has allowed me the freedom to be innovative in my approach to service delivery, and has fostered my sense of ownership and commitment to the program’s overall success.”

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How we make a difference in regional communities

Youth ServiceSYouth Support Coordinator Program

Provides early intervention services to young people at risk of disengagement from education, due to social or emotional issues.

Youth Connections Provides a combination of individual support, group work and training activities to enable young people to address personal barriers that may prevent them from reaching their goals. The support provided through Youth Connections is tailored to cater to each young person’s needs.

Partnership Brokers Builds strategic partnerships to improve the development, education, learning and transition outcomes of young people. The program is part of the National Education Reform Strategy to improve the attainment rates to Year 12 (or its equivalent) to 90%.

Get Set For Work Supporting young people who have left school early, are ‘at risk’ of not completing Year 12, are unsure of where to go next, and/or are not ready to commit to formal education or vocational training.

Australian Secondary Schools Alcohol and Drug Survey

Surveys are conducted nationally every three years and are a significant indicator of drug use behaviours in young people. The surveys inform prevention and early intervention strategies to be implemented throughout the country.

Kids and Youth Active Inclusion Project

Offers additional sport choices for children and youth with disability.

HealtH and Wellbeing ServiceSFamily Wellbeing Program Supports positive family functioning, particularly for those who are vulnerable or in disadvantaged circumstances,

by providing: partnerships with organisations that support families; links with other parents/grandparent carers; support and advocacy; activities; transitional support for newly-relocated families; and a resource library.

Personal Helpers and Mentors Program

Through a strengths-based approach, the program provides support for clients who have a severe functional limitation resulting from a mental illness. Includes non-clinical support to assist individuals to a position of independence.

Time for Change Provides case management and support to people appearing before the court on alcohol-related offences. With a strong focus on behavioural and lifestyle change, the program supports clients to make significant changes in their lives and reduce risky drinking behaviour.

RaveSafe Aimed at reducing the harms associated with alcohol and illicit drug use, this education and early intervention program provides information at music events and in nightclubs, and works with event promoters and nightclubs to provide healthy settings for patrons. Peer helpers attend music events providing information and support to patrons, and referring where necessary to health services.

Street Angels Operating on the Sunshine Coast on Thursday, Friday and/or Saturday nights, as well as on significant occasions, Street Angels works to reduce alcohol related harms at public events and is staffed by a team of volunteers.

Caboolture Cell Visitor Service Provides support for Indigenous people who are detained in a watch house overnight for an alcohol-related offence.

Mackay’s Got Talent Held during National Youth Week, Mackay’s Got Talent enables 15 aspiring actors, singers, acrobats and more to perform for large audiences and liaise with well known talents.

Social EntErpriSEComSol Enterprises Creates new employment opportunities, cost effective community services and innovative partnerships with business,

government, Council and local communities.

Coastal Recovery A sustainable recycling enterprise designed to provide employment, training and support for people with a disability and/or disadvantage in Central Queensland. Coastal Recovery educates land fill users to achieve positive environmental outcomes.

Community Asset Services Provides training and employment opportunities to young people, mature aged and long term unemployed jobseekers, and consolidates and grows strategic alliances within local communities.

Lake Kawana Community Garden

Providing an opportunity for students, seniors and people with a disability to learn and practice sustainable gardening strategies, the garden will also provide avenues for social connection and environmental appreciation.

EmploymEnt SErvicESJob Services Australia (with Job Futures Australia)

Provides jobseekers with personalised help, targeted services and greater access to training opportunities and work experience in areas of skill need.

Disability Employment Services (with Job Futures Australia)

Delivered by a national network of organisations, Disability Employment Services provide specialised employment assistance for people who may be disadvantaged or have a disability. Individually-tailored services may include assistance with job preparation; on the job support; and incentives and assistance for employers.

National Disability Coordination Officer Program

Targets the barriers that people with a disability face in accessing and completing further education, training and subsequent employment.

Training ServiceS

Productivity Places Program Part of the Queensland Government’s Skilling Australia for the Future initiative, the Productivity Places Program provides fully funded accredited training for industries that are experiencing skill shortages.

Australian Apprenticeships Access Program (with Job Futures Australia)

A pre-vocational training, support and assistance program focusing on the business and retail industries. Participants receive modules towards a Certificate II level qualification with an aim of obtaining an apprenticeship/ traineeship/ full time position and completing their qualification with on-the-job training.

Focused Employment Services Identifies barriers to employment, then provides targeted, accredited training and work placement experience.

Green Army Supports participants to re-build and restore parks and gardens in need of care.

Green Force Allocates targeted recovery work to jobseekers, thereby providing assistance to meet identified skill gaps.

My Kareer Rules Targets mature-aged jobseekers and provides specific case management, employment and training assistance,including accredited training in business coupled with paid, on-the-job training.

Branch into Power Delivered under the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative, Branch into Power provides hands-on training and individualised assistance for participants to seek employment in the horticulture industry.

Rockhampton PCYC and Rockhampton Rugby Park Flood Restorations

Provides Indigenous jobseekers and/or jobseekers with a disability with an opportunity to develop on-the-job work skills, through the redevelopment of these flood affected facilities.

First Year Apprenticeship Pilot Aims to increase the number of first year apprenticeships in the construction, engineering and metal fabrication and commercial cooking sectors and address higher-than-average unemployment through the provision of intensive job preparation and pre-vocational training.

Home and Community Support ServiCeSDisability Care Supports people who have a disability, whether physical, intellectual, psychiatric, an acquired brain injury, autism or

a sensory disability. Support may encompass personal care, lifestyle, health, therapy, positive behaviour, alternative communication support, personal planning, respite or 24 hour support.

Home and Community Care Provides community care and respite services to frail aged clients.

Disability and Community Care Services

Provides individualised support for school leavers to transition from school to adult community life, with a particular focus on developing social, life and community access skills.

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About ‘Team ComSol’A career with Community Solutions is more than just a job with an organisation that delivers valuable community services. Being one of the 400+ members of Team ComSol provides our people with the opportunity to really make a difference by working ‘together for better’.From the initial welcome to Team ComSol, we take the skill sets and experiencesthat our people bring to us and enhance them.

By providing unique learning experiences through our own Comsol skills exchange (Csx), we work with our people to develop individual career ‘passports’ that will take them on a development journey through our diverse organisation - whether by focusing onspecialised service delivery experiences or refining leadership capacities.

When we spot team members doing great things, we look for the opportunity to recognise them through our organisational our People in Action awards.

Team ComSol isn’t just all about work either. Ensuring a balance between our commitment to ComSol and our families is important to us and by enabling our people to purchase additional leave, we provide the opportunity to strikethe right balance.Being a part of Team ComSol means we really are working ‘together for better’.

Celebrating long service We acknowledge and celebrate our wonderful people who have this year achieved 10+ years of service within the Community Solutions Group.

– Kathleen Hall

– Irene Manning

– Sandra Murison

– Prue Turner

– Amanda Reilly

– Carol Jacobsen

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The ‘Team ComSol Way’

Our regiOns We focus our attention and resources on the needs and opportunities of regional Australia and aspire to make a profound contribution to sustainable regional development.

Our cOmmunitiesWe are committed to making a tangible contribution to the

capacity and wellbeing of local communities, not just as a service provider, but as a valued member

of each community.

Our peOple and teamsWe are a ‘team of teams’ made up of skilled, committed and ethical people working together to provide professional, integrated and quality services for our clients and their families.

Our clients and servicesWe are a highly respected

community service provider, offering innovative and

professional services which enrich individuals, enhance communities

and develop regions.

Our values in action

Clients And

serviCes

PeoPle And teAMs

reg

ions

CoMM

unitie

s

Enriching people’s lives, enhancing communities, developing regions

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Our People in Action (OPIA) Awards

“I enjoy working in an organisation that allows me to fulfil my passion to make a difference in people’s lives, and involves great people, great clients, and great projects all within a friendly and supportive work environment.”

Christina Birch Service Leader, Youth Services

liz hucknall Business Services, Corporate Solutions

sharon garroneData Management, Service Solutions

donna hammettService Delivery Officer,Health and Wellbeing Services

dave foxell Service Delivery Officer, Employment Services

Jan Cumberland Service Delivery Officer, Employment Services

leesa KinnaneService Delivery Officer, Business Development Unit

deb hiltonService Delivery Officer, Employment Services

Celebrating those who personify the “Team ComSol Way” both in action and attitude

“Community Solutions has some amazing employees and I look forward to seeing ongoing recognition and organisational growth as a whole.”

Central Queensland

sue thomson Service Delivery Officer,Health and Wellbeing Services

Jean watene Service Delivery Officer, Regional Operations

Joelene feeneyService Support Officer, Regional Operations

daniel windressService Delivery Officer, Employment Services

fiona Mahon Service Delivery Officer, Employment Services

lindaMary McQueen Service Support Officer, Finance

romina BettegaSenior Service Delivery Officer, Employment Services

lisa hussieService Delivery Officer, Youth Services

“We have a very strong group of people ... who really do believe in our core values and the ‘Team ComSol Way’…”

Wide Bay

Sunshine Coast

North Queensland

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Community initiativesAs a public benevolent institution, Community Solutions and our committed staff actively contribute to the communities in which we live and operate. Recent activities include:

–Fundraisingforbreastcancerresearch

–Christmastreesfordisadvantagedfamilies

– YouthOffenderBlitz–intensivecasesupportforrepeatoffendersinMackay

–Mackay’sGotTalent–youthtalentshowcase

–CommunitySolutions’ReconciliationActionPlan

–RockyRiverRun–youthsuicidepreventionevent

–RelayforLife–cancerresearch

–DisabilityActionWeek

– WalktheTalk-DialogueforChange-mentalhealthconference

–NAIDOCweek

–Sailability

–RUOk?Day–suicideprevention

–Logan’sRun-fundraiserforchildhoodcancer

–DevelopingIndigenousLeadersprogram

–Movember–awarenessraisingeventformen’shealth

L-R(Top-bottom):RUOk?Day,Sailability–withJessicaWatson,Logan’sRun,RelayforLife,BreastCancerawarenesscalendarandDisabilityActionWeek.

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Work Experience Transitional ProgramWiththeaimofengagingstudentswhohaveadisabilityandwilltransitionintoYear12in2013,theprogramassistsyoungpeopleintoworkexperience,andpotentiallylong-termemployment,viaatraineeship/apprenticeship.

Leveragingoffanextensive network of stakeholders establishedviathePartnershipBrokersprogram,theWorkExperienceTransitionalProgramprovides:

–careerguidance,

–assessments,

–employabilityskillstraining,

–workplacemonitoring,

–postplacementsupport,

–advocacy,and

–marketing.

Community Fun Day – Disability Action WeekAttendedbysome600communitymembers,theCommunityFunDaytookplaceinCannonvaleinSeptembertocelebrate abilityandraise community awareness and support.

FeaturingZumbadisplays,bricabrac,rides,andfairyfloss/popcornstallsoperatedbyCompassWhitsundays’clients,theeventsawthewholecommunitycometogetherinapositivecelebration.

ParalympiccyclistDavidNicholaswasamongtheevent’sattendees–inspiringthecrowdfollowinghisLondon2012goldandbronzemedalwins.

Foundation funded projects for 2012 include:

Grandparents United supporting and enhancingtheprofileofgrandparentsintheFraserCoastareawhoareraisingtheirgrandchildren,GrandparentsUnitedisdeliveredasapartnershipbetweenCommunitySolutionsandFamilyConnect–CommunityConnectFraserCoastInc.

Keyactivitiesinclude:

–promotionalactivities,

–informationdays,

–awarenessraisinginitiatives,

–strengtheninglinkswithschoolsandchildcareservices,and

–establishmentofalocaldiscountservicescardwithafocusontheneedsofthegrandchildren

Lake Kawana Community GardenDeveloping“sustainablecommunities”iswidelyrecognisedasanessentialprocessinwhichwe all share a collective responsibility.AdjacenttotheSunshineCoastCommunityCapitalCentre,theLakeKawanaCommunityGardenwillprovideanopportunityforstudents,seniorsandpeoplewithadisabilitytolearnandpracticesustainable gardening strategies.Additionalbenefitswillbeevidentinthesocialconnectionsmadeandenvironmentalappreciation,whichwillbedevelopedthroughinvolvementintheCommunityGardenproject.

Giving back... our Foundation makes a differenceAt Community Solutions we are extremely proud of our commitment to “give back” via the self-funded community grants made possible via the Community Capital Foundation.

Established in 2009, the Foundation is supported by other like-minded organisations, who share our commitment to fund projects and services in communities where there are unmet needs and potential opportunities.

Each year, members of Team ComSol are given the opportunity to identify these needs and opportunities within their communities and to propose projects that could be assisted through funding from the Community Capital Foundation.

In addition to these internal grants, the Foundation continues to identify other suitable internal or joint partner initiatives throughout the year, to further assist our communities and their people.

“I have heard it said that the only people who come to disability events are people with disabilities and their families. My goal since (hearing this) has been to break that cycle; and this event well and truly exceeded that goal.”

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Our partners, supporters and funding agenciesfunding Bodies:–QueenslandGovernmentDepartment

ofEmployment,EconomicDevelopmentandInnovation

–QueenslandDepartmentofCommunities–AustralianGovernmentDepartment

ofEducation,EmploymentandWorkplaceRelations

–CancerCouncilQueensland–QueenslandTreasury-OfficeofLiquor

andGamingRegulation–AustralianGovernmentDepartmentof

Families,Housing,CommunityServicesandIndigenousAffairs

–SunshineCoastRegionalCouncil

–QueenslandHealth

PArtners:–JobFuturesLtd–NationalDisabilitiesService–KiaMotorsAustralia–UnitedSynergiesLtd–BridgeworksTrainingandEmployment–UniversityofSouthernQueensland–ChancellorStateCollege–MurriWatchAboriginalandTorresStrait

IslanderCorporation–JobSmart–CancerCouncilofVictoria

suPPorters: sunshine Coast–IntegratedFamilyandYouthServiceInc–UniversityoftheSunshineCoast–ShineCommunityCare–GarryCrickAutoGroup–InnerWheelSunshineCoast–SchultzToomeyO’BrienLawyers–SalvationArmyMaroochydore–LionessesofCaloundra–EmeraldWoodsNeighbourhoodWatch–QueenslandBlueLightAssociation–RotaryClubofCaloundra–SunshineCoastTAFE–LionsClubofMooloolaba–JohnPearsonConsultingLtd–NambourCommunityCentre–LakeKawanaCommunityCentre–EasternTreeServices

wide Bay–BundabergMatureWomen–CitiCoastChurch–QueenslandCountryWomen’s

AssociationBundaberg–BundabergBusinessWomen’sNetwork–BundabergRegionalCouncil–Disability

andYouthSectorGroup–FraserCoastIntegratedMental

HealthServices–GympieandDistrictGoldRush

FestivalCommittee–CooloolaAboriginalServicesIncorporated–RoadcraftDriverEducationCentre-Gympie–BayFusion–VillageCaterer

–SimpleSolutions–FraserCoastMotorCentre–AllstrongLocksmiths–TheRawSausage–Centacare–CareerEmploymentAustralia–MaryboroughCorrectionalFacility–TargetHerveyBay–XavierCollege–UranganStateHighSchool–HerveyBayHighSchool–AnnLloyd–Busy@work–MEGT–SkillingSolutionsQld–WideBayTAFE–Auslan–BackandBeyond–InsightPsychology&Counselling–Men@Work–TranscomCare–JoanneCoulch–OddiyanaDharmaSanctuary–Sauers–WideBayVolunteers–FraserCoastHousing–TheFoodBasket–YouthCare–PrinceDrivingSchool–MaisyKaufmannLearningCentre–Lifeline–PaylessShoes–TheSafetyShop–Narbil–MaryboroughNeighbourhoodCentre–FlameLilly–TaylorMadeHairandBeauty

Central Queensland–AucklandStreetOfficeNational

–Trev’sSecurity

–Domain

–TheCheesecakeShop

–Ozcare

–TheFruitShop

–Speedicash

–SeisiaEnterprisesinBamaga

–BJTrolleys

–PortCurtisDayrespite

–GladstoneBaseHospital

–Dicey’sIrishPub

–RockhamptonRegionalCouncil

–YeppoonCommunityDevelopmentCentre

–YeppoonStateHighSchool

–CareersEmploymentAustralia

–CapricornCommunityLiteracyInc

–CQCommunityLegalServiceRockhampton

–DepartmentofTransport

–ShowSociety-Yeppoon

–IanGroves

–NationalRetailFoundation

–DrivetimeYeppoon

–LogistixTraining

–MantasontheBeach

–YeppoonCitycare

–PoliceCitizensYouthClub

–MorganHonda

–BHPMitsubishiAlliance

–CentralHighlandsRegionalCouncil

–TheSalvationArmy

–Busbys

–Rocky’sOwnTransport

–MercyCareandtheMaterMisericordiaeHospital

–Toyworld

–Nando’s

–Subway

–BlueCare

–Bunnings

–EastCoastTrafficControl

–McKeaguesSurveying

–Lawrence’sHoldenServiceandMaintenanceDepartment

–MenswearDirect

–ParkhurstMotel&VanPark

–KangaBins

–SpotlessCleaning

–FrenchvilleSportsClub

–IGA

–DrRofe

–DrGentle

–DanielsSurgical

–Suncare

–YeppoonResort

north Queensland–MorrisCorporation,Bowen&Glenden

–CrossroadArts

–Madec,Mackay

–RedCross,Mackay

–MentalIllnessFellowshipMackay

–RioTinto

–ArtSpace

–DepartmentofEnvironmentalResourceManagement,Mackay

–Officeworks

–DollarsandSense

–HealthPointPharmacy

–MaxEmployment

–AdvanceEmploymentInc

–Spotlight

–CrazyClarks

–TriQrecycling

–SalvationArmy-RuralViewandGregorySt,Mackay

–EndeavourFoundation

–MillerHouse(Sarina)

–Lifeline-NorthMackay

–CollinsvilleCommunityAssociation

–HamiltonIslandEnterprises

–Sucrogen

–BradfordBestEmploymentServices

–DaydreamIslandResort

–SpotlessFacilityServicesPtyLtd

–TownsvilleMackayMedicareLocal

–MackayYouthSupportService

–MackayRegionalCouncil

–YIRSOneStopYouthShop

–MackayAboriginalandIslanderJusticeAlternativesGroupMAIJAG

–KalyanYouthServices

–ProserpineYouthService

–SarinaYouthCentre

–HarrupParkCountryClub

–CompleteFacilityServices

–MudthNyletaATSICorporation

–Lifestream

–GoodShepherdLodge

–SouthsideMedical

–BestandLessCanelands

–NationalRetailAssociationRTO

–Tackleworld

–HungryJacks

–Kmart

–MackayAdvocacy

–MackayRegionalMentalHealthNetwork

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Our service footprint … town by townKAwAnA (inCluding CABoolture)SunshineCoastCommunityCapitalCentre,100SportsmansParade,Bokarina,Qld4575Phone +61 7 5413 1555

nAMBourNambourCommunityCentre,2ShearerSt,Nambour,Queensland,4560Phone +61 7 5441 5800

MAryBorough320KentStreet,Maryborough,Qld,4650Phone +61 7 4122 7666

hervey BAyStJohn’sGardens,10-12TorquayRoad,PialbaQld4655Phone +61 7 4197 3111

hervey BAy6/26TaylorStreet,PialbaQld4655Phone +61 7 4197 3131

hervey BAy (with BAy suPPort serviCes grouP)11/107BoatHarbourDrive,PialbaQld4655Phone +61 7 4124 5433

gAyndAh16/18CapperStreet,GayndahQld4625Phone +61 7 4140 8867

BundABergBundabergEnterpriseCentre,QuayStreet,BundabergQld4670Phone +61 7 4151 6155

BiloelA4-5,51KariboeStreet,BiloelaQld4715Phone +61 7 4992 4220

glAdstoneSuite3/32TankStreet,GladstoneQld4680Phone +61 7 4977 8111

eMerAld106EgertonStreet,EmeraldQld4720Phone +61 7 4987 5211

roCKhAMPton189MusgraveStreet,NorthRockhampton,Qld4701Phone +61 7 4932 8000

yePPoonShop6/18-22AnzacParade,YeppoonQld4703Phone +61 7 4925 5700

MorAnBAh142MillsAvenue,Moranbah,4744Phone +61 7 4941 4707

MACKAy south (with Pioneer eMPloyMent serviCe)TheRSLBuilding,70SydneyStreet,MackayQld4740Phone +61 7 4841 8888

MACKAy northShopB,4DiscoveryLane,MackayQld4740

ProserPine34ChapmanSt,Proserpine4800Phone +61 7 4841 8832

whitsundAy PlACe (with CoMPAss whitsundAys)Lot1AbellRoad,CannonvaleQld4802Phone +61 7 4967 6800

BowenShop7DowntownCentre,37WilliamsStreet,BowenQld4805Phone +61 7 4786 5422

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www.communitysolutions.org.au