When Tom was preparing to leave school, and no one was offering any suitable post-school work options, his parents knew they had to come up with the answer. Skip forward 5 years, and Tom is happily and successfully running his own lawn maintenance business with approximately 50 regular clients.
Ground Control by Major Tom came into being because his family
- chose to focus on Tom’s interests and skills, and
- had a goal that Tom would have a valued role in the community.
Tom’s Circle of Support, which was established at the same time as his business, still meets regularly. The Circle’s roles are
- to support Tom in his decision making
- to provide new social and recreational opportunities
- and to hold and protect his vision of a good life.
Helen, Tom’s mum, will describe the pathway from its beginnings, where she dreamed of a Microenterprise for Tom, to today, where the dream is a reality. In her presentation, Helen will
- discuss their use of formal (paid) and informal supports
- share strategies for sustainability, business growth, skill development and independence
- provide tips on “thinking typical”.
Outside-the-box-thinkers will appreciate the ideas, tactics, and strategies that abound in Tom’s story.
Introduction
This session was introduced by Gus Reichelt
Hi, I am Gus. I am here to tell you about Tom Neale and Helen Neale.
Tom is a young man who is nearly 24 years old. He has his own lawn mowing business. Tom likes to travel, go to the pub, and hang out with friends. He is a valued and busy community member.
Helen Neale is Tom’s mum. Helen works for “Community Living Project” in South Australia. Today Helen will tell us how Tom’s business started and grew.
I hope you enjoy listening to Tom’s story.
Meet Tom Neale
Tom is nearly 24, a hard worker who has had his microenterprise “Ground Control by Major Tom” for almost five years. He is a good friend to many and loves to help out where he can, whether raising funds and awareness for the homeless or being a good neighbour.
Tom has a vision for a good and typical life- he loves to travel, go to the pub, hang out with friends, and one day wants a modern house of his own. Tom has Autism, but this doesn’t define him.
Meet Helen Neale
Helen is Tom’s mum as well as his current social secretary! She has always had high expectations for Tom and hasn’t let the narrow mindedness of others change his life trajectory.
Helen now works for Community Living Project in South Australia, an organisation driven by strong values. In this role, she shares information about microenterprise as a career option for people with disability.
Resources related to Tom and Helen’s presentation
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