Allinto Support Coordinator Cheri Rhys-Jones has won the prestigious John Gallimore Scholarship, which will see her attend the 2025 International Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
This opportunity is especially meaningful for Cheri, whose son lives with PWS, a rare condition with limited global expertise.
The $5000 annual scholarship is open to employees who have a lived experience of disability or mental ill-health. This year’s award acknowledges Cheri’s dedication to her role and her commitment to improving outcomes for the PWS community.
“Being able to attend an international conference where leading experts are gathered in one place is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,’’ Cheri said.
“I’m particularly excited to learn about best practices for adult housing and independent living, as these are challenges I’ll be navigating with my son in the coming years.”
Having a child with a disability inspired Cheri to make the transition from hospitality manager and hotel owner to support worker. Following the challenges of COVID she began work as a support coordinator and hasn’t looked back.
“I draw on both my career background and my understanding of the NDIS system,’’ Cheri explained.
“The system is complex and constantly evolving, but the real reward lies in finding solutions for my clients when they feel there’s no way forward.
“One of my long-term clients has achieved amazing growth since our early days, and another recently transitioned into supported accommodation after years of care by his elderly parents. Knowing he can live independently has given them peace of mind for the future.”
Cheri’s ‘make it work’ motto reflects her dedication to empowering her clients to live their best lives within their communities.
As the 2024 John Gallimore Scholarship recipient, she is set to make an even greater impact by applying her new knowledge to the people and communities she serves.
The John Gallimore Amplifying Purpose Scholarship was introduced in 2024 and honours the remarkable contribution of long-term Director John Gallimore OAM. The scholarship is designed to contribute to personal development or educational costs to help achieve career goals, with the aim of making a lasting impact on the individual, their workplace, and the community.
For more information about Allinto’s support coordination services or to view our current career opportunity, visit our website allinto.org.au