Getting involved in community activities is a great way to improve the health and wellbeing of people living with disability. Whether it’s an outdoor activity or social activity, getting involved is a great way to step out of daily routine and try something new.
That’s why we’ve put together a collection of 10 community activities for adults with disability to enjoy in NSW.
The benefits of getting involved in community activities
Getting involved in community groups and activities can be extremely powerful for people living with disability. They’re especially beneficial for their mental health. In fact, community engagement and activities are beneficial for everyone!
Building social connections
Participating in community events and programs allows individuals to meet new people and form friendships. These friendships can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and instead, foster a sense of inclusion and companionship.
Through these social connections, individuals can share experiences, offer mutual support, and create lasting bonds that enrich their lives.
Individual growth
Engaging in various activities provides opportunities to learn new skills, pursue hobbies, and explore interests. This continuous learning and skill development can lead to increased self-confidence and independence.
The challenges encountered and overcome in these activities can also build resilience, empowering individuals to navigate other areas of their lives with greater confidence.
Sense of belonging
Being part of a community where one feels valued and accepted is essential for mental and emotional wellbeing.
Community activities provide a safe place where everyone’s contributions are recognised and appreciated, reinforcing their identity and self-worth.
Types of community activities
While everyone’s interests will be different, there are plenty of opportunities to try a new and exciting recreational activity. Activities typically fall into 3 different categories; skill building, hobbies and community engagement.
Skills building
Skill-building activities are designed to enhance essential life skills and foster independence. These activities focus on practical competencies that can significantly improve daily living and self-sufficiency.
Traditionally, skills building activities include literacy and numeracy, travel training, computing, cooking or gardening classes.
Hobbies
Hobbies are a fantastic way for individuals to explore their interests, express creativity, and enjoy leisure time. Engaging in arts and crafts can be both therapeutic and satisfying, providing a creative outlet and the joy of making something tangible.
Hobby activities are expansive but could include art and craft, drama, music therapy, fishing, or gentle exercise such as yoga and tai chi.
Community engagement
Community engagement activities are all about connecting with others and contributing to the community. These activities provide avenues for social interaction and physical activity.
Community engagement activities could include local sports, swimming, library, coffee club, movies or volunteering.
The 10 best community activities for people with disability
Joyrig Gaming Nights
Whether gaming is a passion or just a hobby, Joyrig Gaming Nights brings together like-minded gaming enthusiasts for a LAN party.
Joyrig is a local gaming company that builds custom PCs and hosts LAN nights for beginner and avid gamers.
Every month on the 2nd and 4th Saturday night they host a Gaming Night that is inclusive for people living with disability. These are the perfect opportunity for NDIS Participants to join a local gaming community and get involved offline.
Mt Dan’s Adventures
If you’re looking for an active day trip into the beautiful Blue Mountains, this activity will be a breath of fresh air.
Mt Dan’s Adventures is a bushwalking tour company that helps small groups enjoy the beauty and adventure of the Blue Mountains. They also offer custom bushwalking tours that are tailored to all ages and abilities.
Happy Paws, Happy Hearts
Open up your heart and help care for animals in need with the Happy Paws, Happy Hearts program.
Whether it’s in-person or online, this program helps participants to learn more about caring for pets and native wildlife. Using these learnings, participants will then help support shelter animals to become ready for adoption or to be released back into the wild.
Starfish Nippers
Dive into the Starfish Nippers lifesaving skills program that is specially designed for children and young adults with a disability.
The Starfish Nipper program teaches young people with disabilities beach safety and water awareness skills. All while having fun and working as a team!
Inclusive sports
If an active sports activity is what you’re looking for, there are a range of options to choose from. The NSW government have a variety of inclusive sports programs that are designed to help people living with disability learn new skills, be part of a team and, most importantly, get active.
Drums Alive
Get your groove on with the Drums Alive day program.
Designed to help people of all ages engage their brain and body through rhythmic drumming, Drums Alive sessions can be accessed online, or through their in-person day programs based in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter region.
Australian Reptile Park
Get hands-on with Australian native animals and learn about the animal conservation programs at the Australian Reptile Park.
With over 2000 animals, the Australian Reptile Park is one of Australia’s best attractions and it’s ideally located in the Central Coast. Not only is it a great choice for a day out in New South Wales, it’s also accessible and inclusive for people of all abilities.
Sailability Gosford
Does getting out onto the water with the breeze in your hair appeal to you? Experience the pleasure of sailing in Gosford with Sailability. This fully inclusive activity is open to people at all skill levels.
Designed to help people get a sense of freedom over the water, participants will learn the fundamentals of sailing and skippering the boat with the help of an experienced sailor.
Riding for the Disabled
Riding for the Disabled provides people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy equine-assisted activities. With activities that are designed for either recreational or therapeutic purposes, Riding for the Disabled is based in the Hunter Valley region. Discover the full range of activities they have to develop a rider’s physical and social skills.
Secret Garden and Nursery
For a wholesome day out in the Hawkesbury, The Secret Garden and Nursery offer a range of programs that help people living with disability get closer to nature.
With a range of activities, from plant propagation to candle making, there is an opportunity for everyone to get hands-on and learn a new skill.
How The SIL Company can support
The SIL Company is dedicated to helping people living with disability live independent and fulfilling lives. Engaging in community activities and programs is an important way we can help you or your loved one achieve this.
As well as hosting community programs, such as Joyrig Gaming Nights, we also provide a number of support services to ensure people living with disability can become better connected to their local community. This includes assistance with transport as well as care and support during activities.
As an NDIS provider, The SIL Company is experienced in helping NDIS participants achieve their goals and expand their skillset and social network.
Some of the day activities that our clients love most include:
- Fishing
- Bowling
- Hiking
- Botanic garden trips
- Picnics
- Zoo trips
- Movie theatres
- Cooking classes
- City trips
- Theme parks
- Swimming
- Arcade games
If you’d like to know more about how we can help you get more involved in the activities you love most, contact us today.
