Bendigo Woman Achieves Dream of Becoming a Florist with the Help of are-able Disability Employment Services (DES)

Coral, a 50-year-old woman who suffers from Osteoarthrosis, has achieved her dream of becoming a florist with the help of Disability Employment Services (DES) provider, are-able Bendigo.

Coral commenced with are-able in October 2019, and with the help of her Employment Consultant, Jacinta, she completed a Certificate 3 in Floristry. Despite the course not being available in Bendigo, Coral was able to travel to Melbourne twice a week on the train to complete her training, thanks to the support of are-able.

Through their existing relationship with The Flower Mint, Luke, Team Leader of Bendigo DES, was able to carve out employment for Coral, who now works 15 hours a week doing deliveries and creating fantastic floral arrangements. are-able also supported Coral with new glasses and shoes for her employment.

Coral said “that working on Valentine’s Day, delivering flowers, was an amazing experience, and seeing the joy and happiness in receiving flowers from loved ones was something that brought her great satisfaction.” Coral is so happy in her employment, and the employer is very happy with her work.

Coral’s achievement is not just about finding employment; it’s about fulfilling a lifelong dream and gaining self-satisfaction. Coral’s children are all grown up, and now she has achieved a dream for herself.

This success story demonstrates the power of DES providers like are-able, who are committed to helping people with disabilities find meaningful and fulfilling employment.

For more information on Disability Employment Services and how they can help you or a loved one, please contact are-able.