Help needed for renovation project at WA not-for-profit Strive Community Services at Landsdale Farm

A group of property investors have banded together to help a WA not-for-profit offer more services through a hands-on renovation project. But, there’s more to be done and they’re calling for help.

The heartwarming initiative to help Strive Community Services Inc renovate an old building on its site at the Landsdale Farm in Darch, north of Perth, was sparked by property developer Melissa Fisher’s Diamond Edge Mastermind Group, which was challenged to find a project to work on that would create positive outcomes within the community.

The charity, first founded 28 years ago as Landsdale Family Support Association has since grown into a service dedicated to “enriching the lives of people with special needs, their families and carers, by providing person-centred services and programs”.

What began as a small group of parents collaborating to educate their children with disabilities has grown into a venture that serves and connects families throughout the community, offering carers a little break from the challenges that 24/7 care creates and those with disabilities a safe environment to share new experiences.

After discovering the ever-increasing demand for respite services, the mastermind group decided to choose Strive, realising the charity could help more people if it had more facilities available.

The group is now working towards renovating the old carers’ cabin on the farm site to allow wheelchair access and to provide extra respite beds as a much-needed addition to the facilities already on offer.

“There is a three-bedroom cottage (formerly a carers’ cottage) that was badly affected by termites a few years back,” Julie Wyatt, a Perth property renovation specialist for Chics That Renovate, and member of the mastermind group, explained.

“It has been unable to be utilised and has sat vacant over the years due to limited funding opportunities.”

Starting with only $2000, the mastermind group is now fundraising and sourcing businesses and materials to get the job done. So far, the demolition of the interior of the building has been completed, with several busy bees organised to get the project on its way.

“Now we are putting in a new kitchen, which is able to be used by people with disabilities, a new bathroom for wheelchair access and new paint, and floor coverings,” Wyatt said.

It’s the first time Wyatt has been part of a project like this saying, “It’s been epic seeing how we can change things for these guys and make a difference”.

“We are looking at other initiatives for them once the renovation is finished — like a donation of a donga so we can build additional respite beds for them. Plus, we’re looking at land south of Perth where we could have additional respite care beds as there is huge demand.”

She said many businesses had already come forward to help with donations of materials, but the team still needed extra help to piece everything together.

“We gladly acknowledge their generosity and help,” Wyatt said. “It makes a huge difference to the community. However, there are many more things that we need in order to finish the renovation — key trades like an electrician and a tiler are needed to install all the generously donated supplies.

“We also need donations of key appliances in the kitchen.”

Strive Community Services executive general manager Gemma Campbell said the team had been overwhelmed with the generosity received so far.

“The cabin will give people with disabilities an opportunity to be supported in nature and really take a break from chaotic life,” she said. “It also means sustainability for the organisation as the cabin will form one of our main offerings.”

Showing off the project on LinkedIn, Melissa Fisher said she was “so proud” of the impact the group was already making with their chosen initiative.

“It’s truly amazing what happens when like-minded people come together and push towards the same goal and this is a worthy one indeed,” she wrote.

“Your support is truly appreciated, be that time, money or services — if you are in the area please stop by and take a look.”

Wyatt added that every little bit helps and anything the community could offer would help make an incredible difference to this community.

“I’d encourage people to support these guys, by visiting the farm or helping with donations because they can help so many people in return,” she said.

How you can help:

1. To offer cash donations (tax-deductible) — Go to the Gofundme page
2. To volunteer your time, materials or resources — contact 9206 3400
3. You can support Landsdale Farm and Strive by simply showing up, hiring a space for your next party or event, and telling your friends. You can find them at 71 Evandale Road, Darch and stay on top of their events and happenings by following them at: Strive Community Services Facebook