Living with a disability need not stop you from showcasing your abilities.
That's what Carinity Our House service users demonstrated at the Toogoolawah disability support centre's open day held on July 31.
They gave painting tutorials, made origami, demonstrated roping skills, displayed gardens they maintain, and prepared food for guests.
Refreshments included tasty treats with jam made by clients from rosella fruit picked from trees on the premises.
Maggie Townsend from Carinity Our House said the open day also enabled the not-for-profit service to showcase the range of services on offer for people living with physical or intellectual disability.
It includes group activities, social outings, and short-term accommodation which provides respite for families and carers.
Maggie says Carinity Our House is a "home away from home for people living with disability". However, Shane Smith, who has been coming to Carinity Our House for 14 years, has a different view.
"I don't call it a home away from home; I call it a paradise away from home," Shane said.
Shane said the open day "let people in the community know that we are here for a shoulder to lean on and to make new friends".
"It's good to know there are people just like you out there in the community that are willing to have a go. I can't see myself going anywhere else," he said.
Amongst the guests at the open day were community members, volunteers, disability advocates, Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann, Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt, and local councillors.
Shane encouraged more people in the Somerset region living with disability to join the Carinity Our House family.
"I say come on board, strap yourself in, and let the good times roll."
To learn more about Carinity Our House phone 5314 5737 or visit the website.
