Novita Annual Report 2006 (PDF - Large file - 2Mb)

12^The Carol DibbenEncouragementAwardis made in memoryof Carol Dibben, aformer client andlong-term employeeof the organisation. Itrecognises a seniorstudent who has workeddiligently to achieve hisor her personal goals.The 2005 winner was 13 yearold Ryan Bright (picturedabove, centre, with his familyand 2005 Novita PresidentJane Hyde, far left) whoattends St Columbia SeniorCollege. He is non-verbaland for the past year hasbeen using a MiniMercspeech generating device,which allows him to engagein long conversations withhis family and friends. Ryanhas taken real ownership ofthe device and now does alot of his own programmingand trouble shooting. Thanksto his commitment to gettingthe most from his MiniMerc,Ryan has been able to enjoysome great conversationswith his family, as well asteachers and friends atschool.their commitment that contributes to thesustainability of this service, provides asense of community within Novita andpromotes acceptance of disability withinthe wider community. They are invaluable tothis organisation and I sincerely thank eachof them. I also acknowledge the donationthat was received from the Estate of the lateMr and Mrs Edwards last financial year – acontribution that has been so significant forthis organisation.To my fellow Board members, Iacknowledge your contribution. In avoluntary capacity you have given andcontinue to generously give of your timeand expertise to the organisation. Yourcommitment and courage in makingdecisions that are centred on what is inthe best interests of the children and theirfamilies, has ensured that appropriatestrategic directions are set to enable thisorganisation to provide services to childrenwith disabilities into the future.I acknowledge my predecessor, Mrs JaneHyde, and her outstanding leadership andcommitment to the organisation. Mrs Hydeis an exceptional advocate for childrenwith disabilities and their families. I thankyou for your significant contribution to theorganisation, which continues to this day inyour capacity as a Board member.inspiring leadership. Novita is committedto remaining strong and viable so as toensure that there is a standard for whatservices should be provided to children withdisabilities in South Australia.Many challenges lie ahead for Novita.The organisation must be able to adapt tochange and to be progressive in order tofully address the needs of our clients andtheir families. Novita’s strength, its staffand all that support its work will enable theorganisation to meet those challenges inthe immediate future and beyond.We as an organisation are so verycommitted to ensuring children withdisabilities are connected with their worlds.Elizabeth RobinsonPresidentFinally, I thank Glenn Rappensberg, ourChief Executive, for his decisive and