about us
our story
In a way, Creative Abilities is one of New Zealand’s original social enterprises. For 25 years we have been working to be part of the solution that helps enable New Zealanders who live with complex impairments, to live their own lives in inclusive communities.
It started back in 1994
This was a time of de-institutionalisation when our founder Elizabeth Soper (Liz) was asked by a few adult men, women and their families to advocate for them. They needed a champion to enable them to make choices regarding their own care and living options.
Liz set about changing the paradigm of care-giving in favour of positive interdependence. Thankfully, the movement caught on - although there is still a long way to go before New Zealand is truly inclusive and non-disabling.
Keeping it in the family for two generations
Today Liz’s daughters have this continued journey in mind, propelled by the same founding commitment to ‘doing what is right’ with real heart. Hannah and Clara (both highly experienced in health, wellbeing and management) lead a team of 100+ compassionate caregivers. The caregivers deliver a range of services from supported living to advocacy, according to a core belief that honour’s their mum’s original vision:
Everyone has the right to live life, their way; in an inclusive community. To have choice and control over the things that matter to them. To be able to enjoy enriching experiences and making connections - with a support crew that puts their heart into it.
