United Disability Care (UDC) is a registered Australian not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering people with disability to live meaningful, independent, and fulfilling lives. Guided by the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect and Empathy, UDC supports individuals across Queensland, northern New South Wales, and South Australia through accommodation, personal support, and community participation programs.

In 2018, UDC launched the “Register Your Dream” campaign, a pioneering initiative that empowers people with disability to identify and pursue their personal aspirations. Inspired by the legacy of UDC client Kristyn O’Donnell, whose motto, “Love Your Life, Live Your Dreams”, became the campaign’s foundation, the initiative invites clients to submit their dreams, whether small or life-changing, and commits to doing everything possible to make them a reality.

Dreams often fall outside the scope of NDIS-funded services and include activities such as travelling, attending events, learning new skills, or acquiring cherished items. Without dedicated resources, these aspirations are typically inaccessible due to financial limitations, accessibility barriers, or a lack of social networks. UDC’s campaign addresses this inequity through transparent selection, staff-led advocacy, and community-backed funding.

Since its launch, many dreams have been fulfilled, ranging from adventurous experiences to deeply personal milestones. Highlights include:

• Jimmy from Queensland fulfilled his dream of flying in a helicopter, supported by his worker, Mick.
• Chris swam with dolphins at SeaWorld, experiencing inclusion and joy.
• Paul from Brisbane rode the historic Gympie Rattler steam train, reconnecting with community and history.
• Lynn was able to attend her niece’s wedding in another state, which was the first time she had ever flown in a plane; this was a significant moment for Lynn.

These achievements are publicly celebrated through UDC’s Facebook page and social media storytelling, which amplifies awareness of inclusion and inspires donors. Posts documenting fulfilled dreams consistently achieve strong engagement, extending the campaign’s reach to tens of thousands of Australians.

The campaign’s outcomes extend far beyond the individuals directly supported. Families report increased wellbeing and resilience, staff experience heightened job satisfaction and pride, and communities gain new perspectives on the capabilities and aspirations of people with disability. Donor contributions have increased year-on-year, aided by payroll giving from staff, one-off donations, and corporate sponsorships.

The Dreams Campaign embodies innovation in disability support. It shifts the focus from meeting only basic needs to enabling joy, empowerment, and aspiration. It redefines inclusion by ensuring people with disability have access to experiences many others take for granted. Most importantly, it brings hope, demonstrating that every dream, no matter how small, is worth hearing and pursuing.

Through its clear structure, transparent governance, powerful storytelling, and measurable impact, UDC’s “Register Your Dream” initiative exemplifies outstanding achievement in the charitable sector.

For more information about United Disability Care, visit https://www.uniteddisability.com.au/.