Empowering children with disability in Queensland to try sport through the Abilities Unleashed Program
Disability Sports Australia is excited to announce Variety Queensland as the Naming Rights Partner of its Abilities Unleashed - Kids Queensland program.
The focus of this partnership is on engaging children living with disability in sport and physical education by offering a series of introduction to sport days in partnership with local sporting providers, connecting them to various local sport and recreation opportunities.
Both organisations already support children to get involved in their communities, as well as fostering self-esteem growth and inclusion of all children.
This partnership marks a significant milestone, combining resources to evolve the previously delivered Variety Active Kids Sports Days into the Abilities Unleashed program.
This collaboration with Variety Queensland aims to maximise program outcomes.
In partnership, the two organisations are committed to:
Providing opportunities and pathways into sport for Queensland children living with disabilities, disadvantage or illness.
Hosting ten Variety Abilities Unleashed Kids events across both regional and metropolitan areas of Queensland.
Supporting children with disabilities attending sessions to continue their involvement in sports by increasing their understanding of local opportunities available.
Ayden Shaw, CEO of Disability Sports Australia said, ‘Our collaboration with Variety Queensland represents a natural convergence of two organisations dedicated to inclusion, opportunity and the creation of pathways for individuals, regardless of their ability or background.
As we countdown towards Brisbane 2032, we recognise that many sport journeys will be starting, and we are committed to providing the best experience possible through our National Abilities Unleashed Kids program. These days offer a great starting point for people with disabilities to try a range of sports in a safe, welcoming and accessible environment. As well as providing the opportunity to connect with their local community.
Kellie Turner, Variety Queensland Kid’s Support Manager said:
“We know that kids living with disability often face barriers when trying to get involved in sports. Abilities Unleashed ensures that kids living with disability don’t have to sit on the sidelines – but get to take part in a fun and inclusive sports day.
Thanks to Disability Sports Australia, we’re excited to see this opportunity offered right across Queensland to enable more kids to take part than Variety would otherwise be able to reach.
We know from experience that sport and active recreation, can genuinely change kids’ lives for the better, building confidence and sometimes even carving out new pathways in life. It’s all about helping kids be kids!”
We each have an expanded responsibility to work together, providing immediate and long-term support to empower Queensland children with disabilities who are at risk of falling through the gaps of the system.
This partnership with local sporting organisations aims to deliver opportunities and pathways into sport for these children, ensuring they can connect with their local community and continue their involvement in sports.
By working together, Variety Queensland and Disability Sports Australia will work towards a more inclusive and welcoming sports environment for children with disability in Queensland.
About Disability Sports Australia:
Disability Sports Australia (DSA) is a distinguished National Sporting Organisation, a not-for-profit entity, and a charity that champions active participation in sports for people with disabilities.
As a leader in Australia’s disability sports landscape, DSA is unwavering in its commitment to creating sporting opportunities that are accessible to all, promoting inclusivity, and upholding the rights and interests of individuals with disabilities.
About Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland:
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland supports kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability to be the best they can be. No matter what life throws at them. No matter their ability.
Each year, thousands of Queensland kids receive support from Variety when they need it most. Variety provides grants that deliver practical help with medical and mobility equipment, technology, educational resources, and learning aids; scholarships that support kids with an existing talent across the arts, education and sport, to reach their full potential and follow their dreams; programs that encourage participation, providing opportunities for kids to shine; and experiences where kids can make new friends, have fun, relax and create special memories with their families.
