How a simple idea became a legacy of inclusion
We’re proud to share one of our most meaningful projects. A collaboration between the Opendoor Work for the Dole program, Glen Park Community Centre (GPCC), and Yarra Ranges Council that brought real change to local community gardens.
Together, we designed and built accessible outdoor furniture and raised garden beds that are now being used across the Yarra Ranges. These aren’t just tables and planters. They’re an invitation to join in, to connect, and to feel like you belong.
“It does take a village to raise a family, and we are one big family.”
A place for everyone
Most community gardens aren’t built with accessibility in mind. With tight budgets, things like wheelchair-friendly seating and garden beds often aren’t possible. That changed with this project.
We delivered sturdy tables that seat four people and leave space for a wheelchair. We built garden beds that allow a wheelchair to roll under comfortably, so more people can enjoy gardening without barriers.
“These gardens don’t have much funding. So being able to add something that helps more people feel welcome really mattered.”
“I used to walk past places like this and think they weren’t for me. Now I feel like I belong here.”
Real work. Real skills. Real pride.
This wasn’t a simulated project. It was real work with real outcomes. Our clients measured, sawed, built and problem-solved. They worked as a team. They saw the value of their contribution. Not just in the final result, but in the community impact.
“I’ve been able to do things that I’d only ever dreamed of before.”
“For once, I didn’t just feel useful. I knew I was.”
The work was creative, consistent and meaningful. Many of those involved shared how much they valued having a place to apply themselves without pressure or judgement.
Purpose and long-term impact
For some, this project marked a return to purpose after a long break from work. For others, it was a reminder that their time and effort could make a lasting difference.
“In 12 months’ time I could be walking into a garden and that furniture will still be sitting there. And we were part of that.”
“It gives everyone the opportunity to provide something for somebody outside of themselves.”
This is what inclusive employment should look like. Real skills, real contribution, and real pride.
A partnership with shared values
We were proud to work alongside Glen Park Community Centre, a place that provides education, volunteering, emergency relief and local connection. The values at GPCC align closely with ours. The work flowed naturally because we believed in the same things. Equity, inclusion and community-led solutions.
We also thank Yarra Ranges Council for their support in helping bring this vision to life.
“When you work with people who care, you want to do more. You want to give back.”
A legacy we’ll keep building on
The raised garden beds and accessible furniture are now part of community gardens across the Yarra Ranges. They’ll be used and appreciated for years to come. But the real legacy is the confidence, creativity and connection that came from the people who built them.
“The garden’s a very happy place. It brings the community together.”
We’re proud of every person involved. And we’re proud of what this project represents. Belonging, purpose, and the power of people working together.
Find out more
Learn more about this project by clicking here and by seeing our photo gallery below. You can also connect with us to learn about our employment support services, including the Work for the Dole program.
