Spirit is the new name for our disability services

November 24, 2025

Our disability services have a new name – Spirit. After years of operating under Disability Futures, we’ve embraced a fresh identity that reflects not just what we do, but who we are and the values that guide us.

For Lea Joris, Activity Leader at Tarooki, the rebrand feels like the perfect fit. “I am so pleased that Spirit was chosen, because in one simple word, it captures so much of who we are and what we strive to represent.”

The name Spirit encapsulates the heart of CatholicCare’s mission, which is to uplift, empower and walk alongside the people we support.

“It reflects the dignity, creativity, and unique God-given gifts of every person in our community,” says Lea.

Spirit also ties beautifully to the Catholic tradition, where the Holy Spirit represents guidance, renewal, and life. It inspires us to act with compassion, courage, and faith, and to see the dignity in every person.

Lea sees that spirit in the people she supports every day. Whether it’s a smile when someone achieves a goal or the way participants encourage one another during tough moments, it’s clear that joy, patience, and resilience shine through. “Honestly, I see the ‘spirit’ shining through in the people I support all the time, often in the little moments,” she says.

For Lea, focusing on a person’s spirit, rather than their disability, changes how we see and support them. “When the focus is on a person’s spirit rather than their disability, it changes everything,” she says. “The person is seen as God sees them, whole and beloved, not limited in their challenges but filled with gifts, purpose, and dignity. This approach also transforms how I support. My role becomes less about what I can do for someone and more about how I can walk with them – encouraging their growth, celebrating their achievements, and recognising the sacredness of their everyday life.”

Lea can recall many moments when she has seen someone’s inner spirit shine through, but a couple really stand out. Lea recalls the transformation of one woman who came to the centre shy and withdrawn. “She found her voice,” Lea remembers. “Now, she freely expresses her ideas, encourages others, and uses her art to communicate without fear of judgement. Watching her grow in confidence and joy has been such a privilege.” Lea is in awe of how the Holy Spirit has worked within this woman, gently transforming her fear into courage.

Greg Bergan, General Manager of Disability & Seniors Services at CatholicCare, says that the decision to rebrand was about moving beyond labels. “We wanted to remove the word disability from the brand name, recognising it can carry negative connotations and doesn’t reflect the strength, individuality, and potential of the people we support,” Greg explains. “Instead, we chose Spirit, because it reflects the essence of a person … their uniqueness and energy.”

He reassures families that the rebrand doesn’t change the high-quality services they’ve come to know and trust.

“Please be assured that nothing about your service or support will change. The same team will continue to provide the same care and connection.”

Spirit captures the energy and potential of everyone we support, as well as the dedication and creativity of our staff. As Lea puts it, “The way we work together – sharing ideas, encouraging one another, and always putting the people we support first – that’s where I really feel the Spirit’s presence.”

With this new name, we’re focused on expanding services and helping more people achieve their goals, while keeping our focus on the spirit that lives within everyone we engage with.

We offer accommodation options for those living with disability, day programs, creative arts programs, social and recreational opportunities, support coordination services and a suite of programs for under 18’s. 

Call 1800 324 924, email info@catholiccaredbb.org.au or visit the website for more information.