At this year’s Stronger Together Conference, one of the highlights was announcing the winner of our Carers Cheque Raffle – a new initiative designed to provide a little extra support and recognition to the incredible parents and carers in our community.
We are thrilled to introduce this year’s winner, Kaylene, mum to Mitchell (11), who is in Year 6 at St Gabriel’s School. Mitchell is not only a bright and enthusiastic student, but he also holds the honour of being School Captain this year – a role he takes great pride in.
A busy family life
The family live in the Hills area, where life is a careful balance of work, school, therapies, and community. Kaylene works part-time as a Marketing Manager for a local insurance broker, carefully scheduling her role around Mitchell’s appointments. Dad works as an Events and Production Manager, bringing creativity into their home.
Mitchell has never been defined by the additional support he requires. Instead, he is celebrated for his determination, his leadership, and his passions. He has a keen love of trains, especially taking the metro into the city for a day out, or heading further afield to explore regional areas. As a family, they enjoy getting out and about, attending local events and exploring all that greater Sydney has to offer.
Regulars at Stronger Together
Kaylene and Mitchell are familiar faces at our Community Access Events. Whether it’s an evening at Lollipops Playland or a fun session at Inflatable World, they are often there, enjoying the chance to socialise, connect and just have fun in an environment where families feel welcomed and included.
Kaylene has also become a returning attendee at the annual Stronger Together Conference, recognising the value of connecting with other parents, carers, professionals and local support services.
Kaylene shared with us:
“The inclusive access evenings have been such an opportunity for Mitchell and myself. He gets to enjoy himself in a safe and supportive environment, and I get the chance to meet other parents who really understand our journey. It’s not just about the play – it’s about the connection.”
“The Stronger Together Conference is the one event I always look forward to. I come away with new information, new contacts, and new friendships. It reminds me that I’m not doing this alone – there’s a whole community walking alongside us.”
Celebrating the win
Kaylene’s name was announced as the winner of our Carers Cheque Raffle at the Annual Stronger Together Conference. The prize, generously donated by one of our valued business partners and ongoing sponsors, is designed to give carers the chance to enjoy something for themselves.
In true “mum” fashion, Kaylene has chosen to put the funds towards something that will directly support her family’s needs. While many would indulge in a personal treat, she sees the prize as an opportunity to take some pressure off her family’s budget and ensure Mitchell continues to thrive. That said, she will also be treating herself and supporting the foundation with a ticket to our upcoming Ladies Night – A Night in Tuscany, a well-deserved evening of connection and celebration – we can’t wait to see you there Kaylene!
We couldn’t be happier to see the prize go to such a deserving family. Kaylene and Mitchell’s story is a wonderful reminder of why we do what we do – creating spaces where families can connect, belong and feel supported.
Did You Know? – The Carers Cheque Raffle
The Carers Cheque Raffle was launched for the first time at this year’s Stronger Together Conference. Tickets were sold both online and at the event, with all proceeds going directly to support our programs for families. The prize – a special cheque donated by one of our generous business partners and ongoing sponsors – was presented to Kaylene as the inaugural winner.
This new initiative is just one of the ways we are working to celebrate and acknowledge the dedication of parents and carers in our community, while also raising vital funds to continue our programs.
