The floodwaters wreaked havoc on homes, businesses, and the lives of countless residents. Among those affected was Realising Every Dream (REDinc), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting people with disabilities in the Lismore community. The floods tested their resilience, but through unwavering determination and community support, REDinc not only survived but emerged stronger than ever.
The floods were nothing short of catastrophic. The torrential rain and rising floodwaters inundated the town, displacing thousands and causing extensive damage in the billions of dollars. REDinc, like many other businesses and organizations, was severely impacted by this natural disaster. Their headquarters, which served as a hub for their diverse range of programs and services, was submerged in water.
The challenges faced in the aftermath of the flood were numerous. Their facility suffered structural damage, equipment and supplies were destroyed, and their staff and clients were left in a state of uncertainty. The immediate focus was on safety and ensuring that everyone was accounted for and had the support they needed.
What emerged in the wake of the Lismore floods was a testament to the strength and resilience of the local community. Neighbours, volunteers, and even strangers pitched in to help those in need. REDinc benefited from this outpouring of support. People offered their time, resources, and expertise to assist in the cleanup and rebuilding process.
Despite the tremendous challenges, REDinc’s staff demonstrated incredible adaptability and innovation. They temporarily relocated some of their services to ensure they could continue to support their clients. However, the road to recovery required financial support, and REDinc launched various fundraising efforts to help them get back on their feet including an application for the 2023 ETC Community Support Fund which, of course, they won.
As a not-for-profit company and registered charity, ETC is proud to be able to reinvest any profits we receive each year right back into the communities in which we operate.
Through the ETC Community Support Fund (CSF), we have provided over $2 Million in funding to worthwhile community organisations since 2012, including $1M over the past 2 years.
ETC General Manager ICT, Sam Cox, said he has seen firsthand the incredible impact Of REDin in the community.
“I personally live locally. I understand the tenacity and resilience that comes with building back after such an incredible devastation in the region” Said Sam.
“I have a family member as well, who benefited as a young adolescent with a disability, from the programs here (at REDinc). I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that that’s made to his life.”
Marion Gale, CEO of REDinc, said the organisation was very grateful for ETC’s support.
“ETC reached out at a time when we were really, really desperate and were wondering how we were going to get enough grant money and donations to claw our way back up again”
“This isn’t our first flood, and of course there was Covid. Its just seemed a bit of a roller coaster. So we’ve been very, very grateful for the support of ETC”.
Today, REDinc stands on solid ground once more, thanks to the collective efforts of their dedicated team and the unwavering support of the community. They are in the process of renovating and rebuilding new creative spaces for their programs, and they continue to provide essential services to people with disabilities in and around Lismore area.
The 2022 floods were a severe test of the community’s resilience, and REDinc’s ability to recover and rebuild stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to their mission. Through the outpouring of support, adaptability, and sheer determination, they have not only survived but emerged from the disaster stronger and more prepared for the challenges that may lie ahead. REDinc’s story is a reminder of the power of unity and the remarkable human spirit in the face of adversity.
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