About The Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George
Our Foundation
At IDF St George, our mission is to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities by providing them with the skills and opportunities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. We are committed to creating a supportive community that fosters growth, inclusion, and a sense of belonging. Through our free courses, social activities, and career support, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
Our Mission
Our goal is to facilitate education and career opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. Through our SLES program, free Certificate III courses, and hands-on training at our home-grown businesses, we aim to set our participants up for success in their work and day to day lives.
We are dedicated to providing work and life opportunities that align with the distinct talents and dreams of our participants. Join us in our mission to weave richer, more purposeful life stories and create a more inclusive and supportive community.
Our History
The IDF of St George is a Registered Charity that has supported people with disabilities in the St George and surrounding areas since 1964. The IDF of St George officially came into being on 28 October 1998. Prior to that, the organisation was known as St George Special Industries (SGSI).
SGSI was started in 1964 by a group of dedicated families and friends who established the original Arncliffe site as a venue for people with disabilities to undertake gainful employment.
Our premises at Beach St Kogarah were officially opened in 2016. Bayside Garden Centre (formerly Rockdale Community Nursery) continues to operate as a joint venture between us and the Bayside city council to provide jobs for people with disabilities. Today, we continue to move forward and grow with the ever-changing needs of our participants, partners, and clients.
Our Culture and Values
At IDF of St George, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where employees with intellectual disabilities thrive. Our approach is centered around:
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Empowerment: Giving supported employees a role in designing their work and career paths
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Inclusivity: ensuring a diverse range of job opportunities across various sectors for all
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Quality: Maintaining the highest standards in all our products and services
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Community: Building strong connections within the community and fostering social participation.
