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Karly’s Next Chapter: From PCYC Volunteer to Disability Advocate and Role Model

Karly’s Next Chapter: From PCYC Volunteer to Disability Advocate and Role Model

Amber Griffin

Living with cerebral palsy and reliant on a wheelchair, 30-year-old Karly Moller-Buck has never let her disability define her — and through her work and volunteering at PCYC, she’s become a driving force for inclusion, confidence, and community impact.

Karly started using the gym facilities at PCYC Muswellbrook in the Upper Hunter region of New South Wales in 2019. The Club also offers sport and recreation, and life-changing youth programs, and Karly quickly noticed the positive impact she could make through volunteering – manning reception and helping where needed.

“Self-doubt is a challenge when living with a disability, and the workforce is often the hardest part – but being involved with PCYC has given me confidence in myself and my abilities,” said Karly.

“Rather than ‘you won’t be able to do this’ it’s always ‘how are we going to approach this’, the inclusivity is so valuable.”

PCYC Muswellbrook Club Manager, Rebecca Lehmann says Karly never puts anything in the ‘too-hard’ basket, describing her as an inspiration to all.

“Karly donated her time for months, before a role as a PCYC Activities Officer came up, she applied and interviewed along with other candidates and her enthusiasm stood out above the rest.” Said Rebecca.

The Muswellbrook local has been employed part-time ever since, running school holiday programs, managing gymnastics participants, and closing the Club of an evening. It’s her first paid job opportunity after a decade of difficulty entering the workforce.

“My favourite part of working at PCYC is seeing a switch in people who were on the wrong track, before realising they can do better for themselves, PCYC helps people turn their lives around and it’s really cool.” Said Karly.

Today, some bittersweet news – Karly is resigning from her role to follow her dreams of becoming an NDIS Plan Manager, studying full-time at TAFE.

“Watching everyone at PCYC help others in such big ways, it’s changed something in me, I want to help disabled people get the most out of their life,” said Karly.

“The PCYC community, there’s nothing like it, it’s a once in a lifetime connection – I will always stay connected to the Club, taking casual shifts whenever possible.”

PCYC NSW is an inclusive youth charity, encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to get involved with their local Club.

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Karly’s Next Chapter: From PCYC Volunteer to Disability Advocate and Role Model

Amber Griffin

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