Ave Maria Disability and Mental Health Services

17/11/2025

As we head into the festive season, we’re excited to share that Ave Maria is hosting a Christmas food and toy drive in support of the Salvation Army — a small but meaningful way we can help brighten the holidays for families who need a little extra support.

📅 17 November – 19 December 2025
📍 Drop-off location: Head Office — 16 Second Ave, Unanderra NSW 2526

We’re collecting:

Non-perishable food items
Tinned foods & meal bases
Cleaning & hygiene items
NEW toys, books, and accessories
Outdoor equipment & beach gear
Unwrapped gifts
Gift vouchers

If you’re able to contribute, even something small, it can make a huge difference to a family’s Christmas. ❤️

16/11/2025

Ave Maria Monthly Shout Out!

This month, we proudly shine the spotlight on Courtney, whose dedication, warmth, and commitment to our participants make her an extraordinary part of the Ave Maria family.

Courtney consistently goes above and beyond—bringing compassion to her work, supporting the team with positivity, and helping create a safe, empowering environment for the people we support. Her reliability and genuine care embody the heart of Ave Maria Disability and Mental Health Services.

Thank you, Courtney, for everything you do. You make a real difference every single day! 🌼💛

14/11/2025

At Ave Maria, we believe every step forward is worth celebrating. 🎉
Whether it’s learning a new skill, settling into a new home, or building lasting friendships — we’re here to share in the joy of every milestone. 💙Because every achievement, big or small, deserves recognition. 🌟

👉 Discover more of our stories at www.avemaria.au

13/11/2025

The Shellharbour City Council host 2 events- a Carer’s Workshop and an Inclusive Celebration Event in honour of the International Day of People with Disability :)

The Carers Workshop will take place on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025 11:00am – 1:30pm at Civic Centre.

The Inclusive Celebration event will take place on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Shellharbour Marina.

The event will feature a petting zoo, a sensory corner, and a variety of inclusive and engaging activities provided by Council, their partners and local NDIS service providers.

Thank you, Shellharbour City Council for this wonderful initiative and your ongoing commitment to supporting our community.

07/11/2025

Love and laughter by the bay 💕

Paul and Jewls celebrated their honeymoon in beautiful Batemans Bay this June — a perfect getaway filled with smiles, peace, and happy moments together. 🌊☀️

06/11/2025

Such a wonderful morning meeting Rodney Von Clark, CEO of the Flagstaff Group! 😊

We had the chance to tour the site and see the amazing work they do in creating employment and real opportunities for people with disability. Truly inspiring to see it firsthand!

Thank you, Rod, for your warm welcome and for taking the time to show us around. Looking forward to working together in the future. 💛

05/11/2025

At Ave Maria, we’re all about compassion in action.

From footy nights out to skill-building workshops, we back our participants to connect, learn, and thrive in their local communities. 💚Life happens in the community — and we’re here to make it brighter, together. 🌟

👉 Reach out today to learn more: www.avemaria.au

31/10/2025

🌟 Celebrating Everyday Achievements at Ave Maria 🌟

Meet Amanda — one of our amazing participants who’s been learning to cook with Sharlene as part of her life skills program. Together, they’ve turned cooking time into “Sharlene’s Kitchen”, a fun and engaging way to build confidence and independence! 🍳💚

Last week, Amanda took the lead and made a delicious chicken laksa — all by herself! With just a few instructions, she prepared a wonderful meal and couldn’t have been prouder of her achievement. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do — empowering individuals to live more independently and celebrate their growth every step of the way. 🌈✨

We’re so proud of you, Amanda! 🙌👏

24/10/2025

Caring is a team effort. 💙

At Ave Maria, we recognise the incredible dedication of families and carers. That’s why we provide the resources, respite, and guidance needed to make sure no one feels alone on the journey. 🌿Because when care is shared, everyone feels supported. 🌟

👉 Learn more about our carer support services at www.avemaria.au

24/10/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday, Di! 🎂
Wishing our amazing admin superstar a fantastic year ahead!

We loved celebrating your special day with a little surprise 🎁💖

23/10/2025

🎨 Well done to our amazing Nowra Ave Maria team! 🌈

You did a fantastic job organising the Arts & Craft Fun Day in celebration of World Mental Health Day.

Your creativity and teamwork truly brought joy and connection to everyone involved! 💚🧩✨

21/10/2025

Supporting Mental Health, One Step at a Time 💛

We’re so proud of Shauna, one of our Ave Maria Supported Independent Living participants, who is walking 70km to support Australians living with mental illness through the Black Dog Institute.

Her courage and commitment remind us that every step counts when it comes to breaking the stigma around mental health. 💪

👉 Help Shauna reach her goal!
Every donation — big or small — makes a difference.
🔗 https://www.onefootforward.org.au/fundraisers/shaunaengeler/one-foot-forward

Let’s cheer her on as she walks for a brighter, more supportive Australia! 🌻

living

Together, we can help create better mental health for all.