by Cristelle Govender
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01 Aug, 2024
The Place Charlestown Community Centre and ReadyUp Skills are thrilled to announce the launch of The Place Based Abilities Program, in Lake Macquarie/Newcastle, held over two years. This is a FREE social and capacity building program for young people identifying as neurodivergent regardless of whether they are eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This collaborative program, funded by the Department of Social Services, responds to the reluctance of youth with disability to engage in mainstream social activities, as highlighted through feedback from caregivers and the youth themselves, by focusing on their unique strengths and needs. The Place Based Abilities Program is set to make a significant impact by empowering young people with disability to take charge of their social lives and advocate for a more inclusive community. Enjoy fun & engaging activities built around group interests - shaped by YOU! This program is entirely FREE and you don’t need NDIS funding to participate! We welcome and celebrate people of all gender identities and expressions. Also, family members, guardians and support workers are welcome if needed. Key components of the program that are built into the long term plan include a Community-Centred Recreational Engagement Initiative. This activity empowers participants, aged 10-16 and 17-25 , to design their own recreational activities, allowing them to plan events that align with their interests and needs. Moreover, participants will lead in organising one open community event per term, where they will invite mainstream youth into their space in an effort to promote civic participation, strengthen community bonds, and foster a sense of control and belonging among the participants. Another major aspect of the program focuses on Increasing Accessibility and Inclusion through two innovative initiatives. The first initiative, a Community Access Audit, involves participants conducting voluntary audits of retail stores and local businesses. They will develop a tool to share audit reports with these businesses, providing insights into accessibility challenges and facilitating positive change. The second component of Accessibility and Inclusion is a Storytelling Print Series and Podcast, co-created by the participants to raise awareness and celebrate their unique experiences and abilities. This platform allows them to share their stories, challenges, and successes, fostering greater empathy and understanding within the broader community. The program will run consistently over two years and participants can join at any stage. The groups meet weekly during the school term, on Monday and Thursday afternoons at The Place: The 10-16 age group will meet on Thursdays from 4pm - 7pm - REGISTER HERE The 17-25 age group will meet on Mondays from 4:30pm - 7:30pm - REGISTER HERE You can also contact us on (02) 4032 5500 to find out more and register. This program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information
