Denver Fresser, CEO of HELP Enterprises, presented a report to the Rotary Club of Brisbane, highlighting the significant role the club played in HELP’s early success. In the 1960s, the Rotary Club of Brisbane was instrumental in initiating support for inclusive workshops for people with disabilities. Through the efforts of John Russell and Wallace Bishop, the club raised AU$500,000—equivalent to $7,353,260.87 in today’s terms. This substantial funding was crucial in establishing HELP’s permanent base at Eagle Farm, where the organisation continues to operate.
While the Rotary Club of Brisbane’s involvement was pivotal in the early days, the relationship did not continue in the long term. However, during Fresser’s presentation, a mutual conversation emerged about the possibility of re-engagement between HELP Enterprises and the Rotary Club of Brisbane. Both parties expressed interest in exploring how the club might once again support HELP as it continues to expand its services and fulfil its mission of empowering people with disabilities.
Fresser’s report also detailed HELP’s evolution into a successful social enterprise, offering a range of services including supported employment, commercial solutions, and community wellbeing programmes. He acknowledged that while HELP has grown and adapted over the years, the foundational support from the Rotary Club of Brisbane was instrumental in its development.
The discussion at the meeting underscored the potential for renewed collaboration, with the Rotary Club of Brisbane considering how it might re-engage with HELP to support the organisation’s future endeavours.
