Meet the Team: Luke Smiley, REDinc. Support Worker
Luke in drama class
What qualities do you bring to your work at REDinc.?
I try to be encouraging, funny and full of energy each day. I’m always trying to think of new ways to make a program stronger or improve a participant’s day.
What is one highlight of your time with REDinc.?
I really appreciated being involved in the service users’ and service workers’ research study/book release. In the short time I had worked for REDinc., I realised I was making a difference to someone’s life, and it was a huge highlight for me.
What is special about REDinc.?
REDinc. is like no other workplace. Having previously worked in offices with 20+ staff, its incredible to see that everyone still gets along and works together each and everyday without drama, (except on Wednesday mornings). This is especially the case with the NDIS rollout putting so much pressure on the whole organisation. REDinc. often feels like a family first and a job second.
What do you love the most about your work?
The staff are all really lovely and easy to talk to. That, and every day is different! At no point am I ever bored with the same old routine, because, apart from the same program, each day has its on unique quirks and joys that make it exciting and new.
What is the most important thing about support work?
That if we do our job right, the participants enjoy their day as much as possible and develop memories that will last a lifetime.
Describe a typical day at REDinc.
Depends which day. Mondays and Thursdays are busy with the In-School Support team, Tuesdays I catch up on emails and try to get through my uni work for the week. Then Wednesday and Friday I work as a support worker. Wednesdays are a fun day with drama in the morning and then community access in the afternoon. Fridays are sometimes Men’s Shed days and other times dance and signing choir days. As I said, everyday is different, soon to be even more so with the new youth group starting!
Tell us about the new REDinc. youth club
I’ve been a youth worker since I left TAFE in 2012. I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t in youth programs. In the development of this program, it is hoped that REDinc. will be able to offer the most fun and engaging after school youth program for 13-18 years, ever! This will give young people the ability to interact with their peers and access the community on a much more regular basis while developing skills and creating friendships.
If you, or someone you know would like to join the new youth club, please contact Kate e: kate.green@redinc.org.au or m: 0403 712 725.
