SEE THE ABLE NOT THE LABEL HAS BEEN DEVELOPED AS AN INVITATION TO CREATE AN UNDERSTANDING OF BELONGING.
This campaign is an opportunity for you to see what we see – stars shining brightly when they are given a platform to flourish.
The eight people selected in this campaign are a diverse group of individuals with a range of interests, desires, and capabilities. They also all have a disability.
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DAMIEN STEVENS
“I’m most proud of the man he has become and the friendships that he has. His angst is gone, and he’s just an amazing, loving and caring man.” – Damien’s mum, Donna
JY LUCK
“Our dream for Jy is for him to have the absolute best life that he can have, without putting any boundaries on it.” – Jy’s parents, Colin and Cheryl
MEAGHAN HOLLAND
“Meaghan has taught us so much and opened us up as people. Her naivety and her innocence remind us all the time of what life is really about.” – Meaghan’s parents, Merryl and Ian
CAITLIN LARSON
“Caitlin is the first person to dive in and help, especially with larger Compass wide projects. She loves to meet visitors at the farm and share our appreciation with the community for their support. She is a natural promoter and always makes you feel seen and loved.” – Kelly Hammond, Compass Development Coordinator
NIENNA MARX
“Nienna is just a person like anyone else, and she enjoys the same things as any other young girl in her 20’s – dancing, music, going to the movies, even night-clubbing! I’m proud of the young woman she is.” – Nienna’s stepdad, John
TOHBIAS DAVENPORT
“Tohbias is better than your best friend. She’s just always there, is so supportive, knows what you need and is also hilarious! There’s just something about her that makes you want to spend all your time with her.” – Tina Yalden, Compass Support Trainer
LESTER CAREY
“Lester doesn’t let his disability get in the way and never has. He always finds a way to overcome any hurdles, is determined and will adapt. I’m proud of everything he’s achieved and the person he has become.” – Lester’s grandparents
MADDI SHANNON
“My dream is that Maddi will never stop dreaming and that she’ll continue to reach for the stars. She can do so much if she doesn’t give up, and if other people don’t give up on her.” – Maddi’s mum, Kelly
For 20 years, The Compass Institute has supported people with disabilities to thrive based on a foundational philosophy that all people are ASSETS. Through looking beyond all labels and SEEing each person simply for who they are, we remove perceived limitations and create space and opportunity for their potential to shine.
This campaign is an expression of that philosophy.
Through attending The Compass Institute, these eight individuals have had the opportunity to continue to grow, learn, develop, contribute and further live a meaningful life.
Every day we are inspired by them. Not because they’re special, or different, or superhuman. Simply because they are unapologetically who they are; authentic, human, flawed, honest and alive.
It is in this shared human experience where we find the threads that are both common and connecting. The innately human desire to be seen, to be valued and to belong.
We shine a light on these individuals, sharing their energy and their stories, to remind you that you too belong, that you too are capable, and you too are worthy.
Join us in celebrating the beauty in every human and remember that with kindness, openness and opportunity, together we can all thrive.