FOUNDING Pinarc board member John Mildren urges anyone of good health to show a responsibility in caring for those in our community who need a little bit of help. The former Pinarc chairman said ultimately, to be normal is being human – and we all have hearts.
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Mr Mildren made an impassioned speech about how much Pinarc has grown and evolved at the disability support not-for-profit’s annual general meeting, which mark the organisation’s 20th anniversary.
“In 1975 when we opened Pennyweight Park we had six clients. People were sometimes ashamed of disability. The public had different attitudes towards them. Twelve months after that we had 124 people and a waiting list as people became aware of the fact people with disabilities are human too, just like anyone else and sometimes need a little more help to achieve the things they want to achieve,” Mr Mildren said.
“Don’t forget we all have diff levels of possibilities, it’s not just people with disabilities who can’t do some things. There’s a limit all of us have.”
- READ MORE: Mildren making the most of his standing
Pinarc now operates on four sites in Ballarat and one in Melton. Five years ago, all were based in uncertain rented sites but Pinarc now owns three properties, the latest acquisition being the former Golden Point Primary School one year ago.
- READ MORE: Pinarc on move to Golden Point primary
Pinarc chief executive officer Marianne Hubbard the way people access support has dramatically changed with greater awareness for personal rights and the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Ms Hubbard said this had been a particularly challenging time for staff and clients. The organisation’s vision to support people with a disability achieve their potential remained unchanged, only the how had altered and this allowed greater flexibility and choice to clients.
One of Pinarc’s most well-known programs is rock bank the Funky Turtles, which has expanded to multiple groups that write and perform their own music.
“This is the dream of many children in their bedroom with rock bands. These people are actually doing it,” Ms Hubbard said.
“They’re creating their own work, telling their story through music. It’s a beautiful program and it’s hard not to smile when you see them, they’re so full of life and joy.”
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