Erica celebrates 30 years at Aruma

Over the past three decades, Erica has used her lived experience with disability to advocate for herself and others.

September 20, 2023

Erica Halvorsen is a familiar face around Aruma, but can you believe that 2023 marks her 30^th year with the organisation?!

“I love that after all this time I am still a part of Aruma. A lot of our clients are part of Aruma but not in the same way that I am. I’m actually employed by Aruma and I’m very proud of that,” said Erica.

Over the past three decades, Erica has worked in several roles across the organisation. On each journey she has made special memories, built friendships for life, and even learned more about herself and what she wants for her future.

“At the beginning I was working in the workshop at Belrose. I then worked in fundraising with Samal, Bec, Elisabeth and Adelle. I really enjoyed this role and I miss the people in fundraising. We used to go out for lunches which was great. I have also been a peer mentor and now I am on Aruma’s Human Rights Advisory Committee,” continued Erica.

In her current role as one of our Human Rights Ambassadors, Erica enjoys having her voice heard on important topics and having a positive impact on how people with a disability are perceived. They recently took a visit to Parliament house where they met with Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Bill Shorten and their Excellencies the Governor-General and his wife Mrs Hurley

She embodies our BRAVE values and when you learn who inspires her most… it’s easy to see where she gets it from.

“I am very inspired by the Watts family. Particularly Nicole Watts and her mother Dorothy. They have done a lot for women with disability, and I have some special memories with them,” shared Erica.

She continued, “My passion at the moment is going to the Aruma homes and meeting the customers. I like taking their photos and getting to know them. I also like that Martin visits the group homes and talks to us all the time. He comes to our committee meetings and it’s great. He talks more about our customers than the company.”

When Erica’s not working, you can find her at drama classes on Monday’s, spending time with Steve or working on one of her many craft projects. A favourite of hers over the years has been designing birthday cards for our customers.

Congrats on 30 years Erica, we can’t wait to see what you achieve next!