Alaister Delivers service with a smile

It’s the best feeling when the doorbell rings and a package is delivered. What’s even better? When that package is delivered with a big smile, on time and in one piece. 

That’s how the team at Therapy Focus’ Central Office feel every time a package is delivered by a young man named Alaister Makinson.

Alaister lives with autism and is non-verbal. Having a job in retail or something that was very customer-facing was not his preference, and so began Alaister Delivers. With the support of his family, Alaister runs a package delivery service that he finds both enjoying and fulfilling.

At the height of the COVID-19 outbreak in WA, Alaister’s dream of starting his own business seemed distant, but he didn’t let the pandemic get in his way. He started his business in November 2020 with assistance from Valued Lives and guidance from his Mum, Doreen.

“We started by discussing what sort of business activities Alaister would be interested in, taking into consideration his interests, strengths and weaknesses, as well as his therapy and personal goals,” Doreen said.

“Alaister Delivers was born from the many brainstorming sessions we had with the people in Alaister’s support network, including his Therapy Focus team.”

“The next step was the creation of the business plan which would create the framework for the foundation of Alaister Delivers. A marketing person was employed to assist with his social media presence on the various platforms as well as prospecting of new loyal clients for Alaister Delivers.”

Pictured: Alaister (R) and Jillian (L)

Therapy Focus Office Coordinator Jillian Bennett started using Alaister’s services in early 2021 and aid that it has been a joy to watch his business grow.

“Not only does Alaister provide an excellent service, he always does it with a smile on his face. He is prompt and efficient, and fits into our schedule at very short notice,” Jillian said.

“It’s wonderful to see how proud he is of his business too.”

Following the successful launch of his business, Alaister and his family have big plans for the future of Alaister Delivers.

“The goal for Alaister Delivers is to grow in the future to encompass not only Alaister but to have other people with a disability working along with Alaister under this microenterprise,” Doreen said.

For more information about Alaister Delivers, or to use Alaister’s services, visit his Facebook page or email [email protected]