Helping people with disability find their place in the world
Ability West is a hands-on organisation that helps people find a sense of belonging in their community. We are also a disability service provider.
We believe everyone has a role to play in our communities.
We know people can reach endless possibilities when given the chance. We can only achieve what’s possible when we’re all treated as real people, with equal opportunities.
Through our programs and services we help the people we work with:
- recognise and value their interests, talents and skills
- learn and build confidence
- get active and involved in their community in a way that works for them (for example, through sport or work).
We also lead conversations with the wider community about belonging and inclusion. This means that we look for opportunities to:
- speak at events
- design and deliver training and workshops
- give feedback on matters that impact vulnerable people, including people with disability.
Our story
Cassie and Mark Gardner founded Ability West in 2013. Together, they deliver the day-to-day work of our organisation.
Cassie and Mark have many years of experience interacting with, and working in, the disability sector.
They found it full of unspoken rules. These rules told people with disability how and where they could belong. They determined how people could get involved in things like work, social groups and sport.
Cassie and Mark decided it was time to rewrite the rules.
That's why Ability West's job is to help people rethink what’s possible in their lives – and then we help them strive for something new. This includes encouraging the wider community to rethink inclusion.
We are a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission with Public Benevolent Institution and Deductable Gift status.
Our people
Cassie
Cassie has over 25 year's experience working with organisations like Northcott Disability Services and CareWest. She is well known in her local community for her leadership, empathy, passion and drive.
Cassie leads our life coaching service. She works 1 on 1 with NDIS participants to build capacity, grow new skills and achieve meaningful goals.
Mark
Mark is a sought-after speaker and consultant specialising in family business management. This includes family meetings and strategic business development.
Mark leads our microenterprise program. He has a knack for seeing opportunities in challenging situations, and finding a way through them with empathy.