Ikigai Community Care: A vision brought to life

IKIGAI Community Care has officially opened the doors to its brand-new community hub.

It’s a welcoming, inclusive space designed to support people living with disability through meaningful, goal-focused programs and services.

For many years, founder and director Leanne Slee carried a passionate vision to create a place where individuals could feel safe, empowered, and inspired to grow.

Over the past 12 months, she has dedicated her time and energy to bringing this initiative to life.

The result is a vibrant, purpose-driven environment reflecting her commitment to the people she supports.

“Formerly known as Ikigai Care, the transition to Ikigai Community Care marks a new chapter, one that reflects both growth and change,” said Ms Slee.

“As the NDIS evolves, the team at Ikigai has embraced a refreshed approach to ensure services are more accountable, goal-aligned, and flexible in meeting participants’ individual needs.

“This includes clearer documentation, structured support plans, and a commitment to services that make a real difference in people’s lives.

“Ikigai Community Care is also working toward aligning with NDIS registration standards and compliances frameworks, delivering services that are participant-led and grounded in professionalism, safety, and positive outcomes.

“At the heart of the new hub are engaging, hands-on programs that promote creativity, life skills, social connection, and supported employment.”

Programs include creative arts and crafts, flower arranging, shredding and recycling, plant and flower potting, mindfulness and gentle movement, and supported employment through the new Ikigai Gift Shop

“Plans are also underway to develop a community garden that will grow fresh fruit and vegetables,” said Ms Slee.

“The garden will support the shop’s produce range and provide ingredients for a community lunch program, offering opportunities for participants to connect socially while contributing to a shared space.”

In addition to its hub-based programs, Ikigai Community Care offers a wide range of supports for people living with disability.

Services include daily living supports, Independent Living Options (ILO), social and community participation, skill building and life skill development, group programs and social connection activities, supported employment, community nursing, transport and travel support and life coaching support.

A dedicated office space has also been made available within the hub for visiting allied health professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and support coordinators, to encourage a more collaborative and accessible service environment.

Ms Slee and the team hope the new hub will become a central, connected part of the local community — not just for participants and families, but for businesses, organisations, and supporters who share in the values of inclusion and empowerment.

“As this initiative continues to grow, Ikigai Community Care welcomes the opportunity to work alongside community groups, local businesses, grant programs, and supporters to further develop the hub, enhance its offerings, and keep creating meaningful opportunities for people with disability,” said Ms Slee. Ikigai Community Care is at 80 High Street, Heathcote.

The official opening of the Ikigai Gift Shop will be held on Wednesday 28 May, and all are welcome to visit, meet the team, and see the vision in action.