ConnectABILITY recreation services
Getting out and being active is a major part of everyone’s health and wellbeing, and plays a vital role in every child’s development. But being active can be pretty tough for kids living with disabilities...
Thanks to funding from the Government of South Australia, Novita is now helping to change this through ConnectABILITY – a new program aiming to help Novita’s kids to get active by connecting them with recreation and sporting activities in the Adelaide metropolitan area.
ConnectABILITY provides a specialised, supportive and practical ‘linkup’ service between children with disabilities and community sporting groups, helping to break down barriers and open doors to a range of new recreation and sporting possibilities.
What is the aim of ConnectABILITY?
The ConnectABILITY project is a pilot program that aims to provide children living with physical disabilities, aged five to 13 years, with greater access to community-based sport and recreation activities.
How will we do this?
ConnectABILITY will be delivered via a range of services, including:
- a supported recreation program that will increase the number of children with physical disabilities participating in community-based recreation programs
- additional, individualised, expert support to community-organised recreation groups and clubs that are looking to enhance their inclusion strategies and increase their membership base
- involving members of the community through the development of volunteer mentoring opportunities within the program.
The program will see Novita’s expert staff working side-by-side with children, families, sporting groups and volunteers, providing advice on appropriate strategies and activities and helping to create a safe, supportive environment where children with disabilities can ‘have a go’.
How will this happen?
Families registered for the ConnectABILITY program will be contacted by Novita’s Recreation Officer to discuss what kind of assistance is desired. For families requesting practical help to connect their child with recreation activities a time will be made to sit down together and to talk about interests. Further assistance will be discussed depending on each family and child’s need.
Who is eligible for ConnectABILITY?
Any Novita client aged five to 13 years, living in the metropolitan area can register for ConnectABILITY.
Top of page contents
How do I register my child?
To register, simply speak with your therapy team or complete the registration form
Forms can be submitted by post, fax or email to:
Novita Children's Services
Recreation Officer (ConnectABILITY)
PO Box 261
Fullarton SA 5063
F (08) 8172 9240
E ConnectABILITY@novita.org.au
Further information
For more information about ConnectABILITY or to register as a volunteer, please contact Emily Ayles, the ConnectABILITY Recreation Officer, on (08) 8172 9240.
You can also send Emily an online message
Top of page contents