In The Chair: President Peter Draper
Members: 14
Guests: Jodie O’Bree, Michael O’Bree, Heidi Whyatt (My Plan Connect).
Ian Draper and Javian
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My Plan Connect
Jodie O’Bree
My Plan Connect Pty Ltd is a private company (family trust) that delivers services to the disabled through NDIS funding. It started in 2020 when Jodie and Michael O’Bree identified a gap in the services provided in regional communities for people with disabilities. They both have disability in their families and are aware of the challenges in that space. They recognised that people in some regional communities found it difficult to get the services they require or may be required to re-locate. They decided to address the need.
Jodie hails from Leeton and has a broad experience in the training and disability sector. Michael is from Swan Hill and has a background in carpentry and training. He also has a disabled brother and so understands the requirements in this area. It is not surprising, then, that the business has divested its interests in Griffith and Wagga and now focus on Leeton and Swan Hill. The Company employs 72 people – 62 in Leeton and 10 in Swan Hill.
Clients receive NDIS funding directly and then they choose the service providers.
My Plan Connect has care homes in Valencia Street and Washington Drive that provide for disabled and respite care. They have recently purchased 2 4-bedroom town houses in Belah St to add to their accommodation.
They have also started a Lawn mowing and handyman business to provide mainstream employment for some of their community. This is important in raising the morale of those involved.
It was clear from the discussion that My Plan Connect is a company that cares.
Heidi Whyatt
Heidi began a school-sponsored traineeship with My Plan Connect while only 15. She applied for and gained a full-time position with the business at the end of Year 11. She is now Administration Assistant with the company and plans to have a career in HR Management. She has studied a Cert 3 in Business and is now doing 2 Cert 4 courses in Business and Leadership and Management. This would give her access to university, but she is not yet sure if this is the direction she is seeking. She left us in no doubt that she enjoys working with My Plan Connect and, I am sure, we were all impressed by her enthusiasm and talent.
Nicholas and Bill Aliendi both highlighted how important My Plan Connect is to our community and how significant they are in supporting the community.
President Peter supported these sentiments in his vote of thanks on behalf of the members.
