About Us

behind the scenes at Meraki

Child Safe Statement

We are committed to supporting an environment that promotes the safety and wellbeing of children

and young people as our priority. This policy has been developed to ensure that our organisation is

a safe and welcoming place for children and young people, and one where children and young

people are equally valued, respected and encouraged to participate. This commitment extends to

all children and young people regardless of their abilities, sex, gender, or background.

Who We Are

Meraki Foundation is a Not-For-Profit charity, which provides person centred and strengths-based support for all people in communities across NSW. Meraki Foundation provides social support for children and young people, support for people with disability, and support for communities through specialised programs.

Meraki Foundation was established after many years of experience within the social services industry, providing a vast range of support for young people in need. Meraki Foundation began as a diligent transportation service, organising group transportations for young people of all abilities, to participate in group outings across Sydney.

Now almost 15 years later, Meraki Foundation has expended, and is proud to support people in various communities across NSW, whilst still providing the original transportations that began our passion for providing support. Whilst simultaneously providing one-on-one support for young people and people with a disability, Meraki has discovered a need for more direct, specific programs to be put in place within community settings, alongside social and disability support. 

Our Team

Our staff are experienced within the Social Welfare, Disability and Community sectors. We are passionate about empowering and supporting you. We want to help you live a positive quality of life with independence and pride.

Despite being established in 2009, the staff at Meraki Foundation make up for over 70 years of combined experience in the social, disability, and community services industries. The Meraki team is demographically diverse, with support workers of all ages, qualifications, cultures, locations, and life experiences. 

Meraki Foundation support workers continue to up-skill their education and training, with support workers constantly renewing and expanding their knowledge and skill through mini-courses and training days endorsed by the Foundation. 

Honesty

We uphold the highest standards of truthfulness and integrity in all our endeavours.

Accountability​

We take responsibility for our actions and their outcomes.

Ethics

Our commitment to ethical conduct is unwavering.

Due Diligence

We approach our work with diligence and care, ensuring the best results.

Community Focused

We are dedicated to serving and uplifting our community.

Leadership

We lead by example, inspiring positive change.

Meraki's Vision, Mission & Values

We aim to strengthen and empower communities

Meraki Foundation envisions communities that are strengthened and empowered through innovative and meaningful programs designed to meet their specific needs.

 

We are on a mission to engage and support the members of our growing communities. Together with local schools, businesses, and other community organisations across South West Sydney, we deliver programs that make a difference.

 

Support & Encouragement

We believe in empowering individuals through education, training, and consultation, enabling them to actively participate in their communities.

Cultural Awareness

Meraki Foundation is committed to fostering cultural awareness and celebrating the diversity of our community members. We aim to unite everyone, regardless of their background, and create a common ground where understanding and appreciation flourish.

Quality Social & Community Support

We are dedicated to developing programs that respond to the unique needs of both individuals and the broader community.

Alleviating Adversity

We work diligently to reduce adversity and stress within the Camden Local Government Area, South West Sydney, and NSW, creating a safer and more harmonious environment for all.

Information Sharing

We strive to build well-informed communities, equipping individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

Building Partnerships

Collaboration is at the heart of our strategy. We seek to build strong partnerships with organisations, businesses, and affiliating bodies that share our objectives, multiplying our impact.

Assisting & Supporting

When families, children, and young people face crisis situations, Meraki Foundation is here to assist and support.

Collaboration

We work hand-in-hand with existing services, ensuring that every party involved feels respected and safe throughout the process

Listening & Understanding

We believe in active listening, gaining a deep understanding of the challenges and needs of our community members. We ask the right questions with respect and empathy.

Appointment to Provide Services

Transparency is a cornerstone of our operations. In any agreement with government departments or organisations, we prioritise transparency, ensuring that all pertinent information is shared openly and honestly

2020 - 2025

Key Strategic Plan

Our primary focus is to create communities that are not just thriving but also inclusive, where every member’s voice is heard and valued. 

We aim to achieve this through:

meet our amazing team

The Faces Behind The service

Brett Thomas

Chief Executive Officer & SSRC Principal Officer

Liam Kelly

Social Service Manager & SSRC Coordinator

Maria Esma

Community Manager

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