Josephine has a passion for volunteering and sharing her experience as a person with Autism with the Hervey Bay community.
Nominated by Marg at Wide Bay Women’s Health Centre for the Fraser Coast All Ability Award for Young Community Spirit, Josephine was announced the winner of this award from the Fraser Coast Council on the 25th October 2017.
In partnerships with the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre & Wide Bay Women’s Health, Josephine organised a local community event called ‘Go Blue for Autism’ where Josephine was a guest speaker. Josephine was able to get the event sponsored by Autism Queensland and received overwhelming support from the local community.
Josephine’s reaction to winning the award was one of joy.
“There’s only one word to describe that: stoked,” she said.
In her spare time, Josephine is studying a Cert III Individual Support through Simple Solutions, advocates for people with Autism, volunteers at two local nursing homes, has volunteered for SES and is a Crime Stopper volunteer. Josephine also travels to attend NDIS & Mental Health Seminars.
“It’s important to be an autism advocate to create awareness & educating people in the community about what Autism really is,” Josephine said.
EPIC Employment Consultant Nikita Lawrence said when she first met Josephine she was in a dark place; very reserved and shy.
“Today, she is so bubbly and friendly, we have the best conversations,” Nikita said.
Josephine currently volunteers at two local aged care facilities in Hervey Bay.
“Josephine assists with the gardening, kitchen staff and mingles with the residents. They absolutely love her,” Nikita said.
“I enjoy my volunteering roles very much and I’m hoping that this will lead to employment,” said Josephine.
“I love going out into the community, meeting and dealing with people every day.”