Melbourne NDIS participant Lincoln doesn’t just watch movies – he works where they premiere.
The 31-year-old, who has Down syndrome, loves his job, making sure any moviegoer who walks through the door has the best cinema experience ever.
Playing to Lincoln’s strengths – a love of movies and incredible recall of stars and music – his NDIS provider contacted a local cinema, mentioned his talent, and he got a start.
‘It’s my dream job,’ Lincoln said. ‘I love movies, music and helping people.’
Some of Lincoln’s favourites include You, Me and Dupree and Grease.
‘John Travolta stars in Grease. I love the songs he sings,’ Lincoln said.
NDIS supports are helping him to build a regular, independent life.
Lincoln has a second job – storeman and packer at a greengrocer. It’s a job he’s proudly held for 13 years. He unloads deliveries, stocks produce and keeps the store tidy.
This paid mainstream work gives him purpose and pride. Mum Janice said these businesses make Lincoln feel valued, and his confidence, speech and social skills have strengthened.
‘Now my goal is to live independently,’ Lincoln said.
At home with Janice, Lincoln has NDIS funded support for daily tasks, appointments, transport and community access. With all these supports in place, he now feels safe, capable and empowered to do more on his own.
‘Before the NDIS, Lincoln didn’t have the confidence or the practical tools to take these steps. Now he just expects to do what everyone else is doing,’ Janice said.
Lincoln’s NDIS funded support worker and mentor Casey has played a key role in building his confidence. She taught him how to use social media. Now he manages his own page, “Lincoln Loves,” where he shares his top songs and his favourite “Movie of the Week.”
Lincoln messages friends, makes social plans and contacts Casey if he needs support.
He’s also reconnected with some bowling teammates. They plan monthly outings – movie and pizza nights, mini golf, theatre trips and regional train adventures.
Lincoln’s also been supported to join other social groups, including a peer support group, to further his life skills and social networks.
Support has meant Lincoln feels confident doing activities independently. He’s even started walking by himself to the local café strip near his home to have lunch.
The café owners greet him by name. He feels safe because they all look out for him.
‘NDIS support has made Lincoln proactive, social and independent,’ Janice said.
‘He’s working 2 jobs, making his own plans and enjoying his community – he’s living life on his own terms.’
With his capacity building supports, living independently is closer for Lincoln than ever before.