Relatable Mentors Transform Lives: Support & Connect Grows 1500% in 18 Months

RIVERLAND, Australia - April 21, 2025 - PRLog -- Support & Connect Founder, Dylan Blackley, today shared how his unique approach to disability support is transforming the lives of young NDIS participants. By matching individuals with relatable mentors and focusing on goal-driven support, Dylan has grown Support & Connect from a one-man operation to a thriving team of 25 mentors in just 18 months—helping over 80 participants build confidence, independence, and lasting progress.

"Without having a good connection, it's never going to work," explains Blackley. "The most important person is the participant. Without a relatable mentor, it's just never going to work. They need to be able to trust, build rapport, and feel confident around them."

Blackley's organisation stands out in an industry traditionally dominated by older support workers by deliberately recruiting younger, energetic mentors who can form authentic connections with clients. This approach has proven transformative, particularly for younger participants who previously struggled to engage with support services.

One success story involves a 20-year-old participant who had negative experiences with traditional NDIS supports. Initially recommended for just two hours of weekly support, the participant quickly requested additional time after connecting with a Support & Connect mentor.

"He had so many goals—learning to swim, understanding finances, getting into the gym—and he achieved nearly all within the first year with us," Blackley shared. "The feedback he gave was that he never had the right mentors before. He was having 40-50 year old people trying to support him, which was never going to work."

The organization's goal-oriented approach differentiates it from traditional support services. "We are hugely goal-oriented and want to fulfill those client's goals. It's super important for each client's independence and moves them further along as a person," said Blackley.

Recently qualified as a counsellor, Blackley has begun expanding services while maintaining the organization's core values. "We don't grow that big or that quick without a reputation. I'd like to hope that we've made a positive impact on every participant's life," he concluded.

About Support & Connect

Support & Connect is a registered NDIS provider dedicated to helping children and young adults achieve meaningful goals through personalised support and mentoring. With a focus on building genuine connections, the team matches participants with relatable mentors who empower them to grow in confidence, independence, and life skills. From daily supports to community participation and recreational programs, Support & Connect delivers outcomes that truly transform lives. Visit https://supportandconnect.com.au to learn more.