Ability Enterprises wins 2017 Social Justice Award

TOOWOOMBA social enterprise Ability Enterprises is the winner of the 2017 Social Justice Award.

TOOWOOMBA social enterprise Ability Enterprises is the winner of the 2017 Social Justice Award.

Ability Enterprises is entering its fifth year of operation and has provided meaningful work for numerous people with barriers to employment.

 Social Justice Commission executive office Dr Mark Copland said the enterprise drove social change in the real economy.

"Ability goes beyond the charity model which gives to the poor from the surplus or left overs of a business to one which puts inclusion at the very heart of what it does," he said.

The Social Justice Awards first started in 2004 and annually recognise the efforts of local people working to create positive change upholding the dignity of the human person and integrity of creation each year.

In previous years recipients have worked in the areas of disability advocacy, indigenous education, affordable housing, refugee support and advocacy, social enterprise, protecting prime agricultural land, community development and sustainability.

This year's annual social justice statement was based around an inclusive economy.

"In Toowoomba we have a number of magnificent examples of what this inclusive economy might look like," Dr Copland said.

"Social enterprises like Ability Enterprises run on sound business principles, deliver great service to customers and successfully ensure that some of our community's most vulnerable enjoy the dignity of work."

The awards will take place on Thursday, December 14 from 5.30pm at the Cathedral Centre.

For more information phone Dr Copland on 0428130895 or Bruce Russell on 0455119466.

Originally published as Ability Enterprises wins 2017 Social Justice Award