How the Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George is Making a Difference, One Product at a Time

In the heart of the Kogarah community, the Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George (IDF of St George) isn’t just making exceptional products. They’re creating with passion, purpose and a touch of magic.  

Here, work isn’t just a task; it’s a source of pride. That’s why every item is stamped with Love My Work, a badge of honour that tells the world someone poured their heart into making, packing, and shipping it.

So, what’s the secret behind the IDF of St George’s products?  

It’s simple: they’re made by people who genuinely care.

Every product that leaves our facility in Kogarah, Sydney, is more than just an item; it’s a labour of love. From packaging to quality checks, every step is carried out with attention to detail, ensuring a finished product that’s as special as the hands that made it.

Take Bill, for example. Blind but with an eagle eye for detail, he plays a key role in quality control. One day, while our Chief Executive Officer Spiro Pissas was packing, Bill discovered a tiny crease on a box others had missed.

“Who let this through?” he asked, bringing the issue to attention immediately.

Spiro was struck by his commitment.

“His passion for quality is a perfect reflection of the excellence that runs through our whole team,” he said.

Bill’s dedication isn’t a one-off; it’s the mindset that fuels our entire workforce.

"Sometimes we get lazy or bored with repetitive tasks," Spiro said. "But our team? They don’t settle for anything less than perfect.”

And their results speak for themselves.

More Than Just a Job. A Source of Pride

When we partnered with major brands like Kellogg’s, the stakes were high. But after a little extra training, the team didn’t just meet expectations, they exceeded them, achieving the lowest waste rate in the region.

It’s not just big brands benefiting from this dedication. IDF proudly manages its own product lines, including:

• Specially Made Wellness Range: Handmade personal care and wellness products.

• Hamper Co.: Thoughtfully curated gift hampers.

• Knight & Georgie Foods: Gourmet snacks to satiate a sweet tooth.

• Bayside Garden Centre: A thriving hub for garden lovers.

Through these initiatives, participants gain hands-on experience in everything from product development to retail, learning essential job skills empowering them for the future.

And it’s not just about the work. It’s about the joy of creating something meaningful. Many IDF of St George employees proudly share photos of their finished products with friends and family, showing off the results of their hard work.

For them, it’s more than a task; it’s the pride of knowing they’ve made something truly special.

Why Choosing IDF of St George Products Makes a Difference

When you buy from us, you’re not just getting a high-quality product; you’re supporting an organisation that’s giving people with disabilities a platform to shine.

Every purchase helps us continue our mission of creating opportunities, building skills and fostering independence. It’s a small choice that has a big impact on individuals, the community, and the businesses we partner with.

So next time you shop, choose us. Whether it’s a Specially Made product, a thoughtful hamper, a tasty snack, or a plant from the garden centre, you’ll be getting something made with passion, care and a whole lot of heart.

Love My Work: because the best products come from people who truly love making them.

Explore the range and make a difference today.