Interchange Central Gippsland

Recreation and LearningPrograms for Young People

The following is a summary of our recreation and learning programs for young people who have a disability. The information provided here is only brief. If you would like to find out if these programs are right for your family and if a waiting list currently exists please contact us.

Social Participation in Technology (SPiT) Project
Interchange Central Gippsland is part of the SPiT Project. This is in partnership with Monash University – School of Rural Health and Interchange Loddon Mallee. ICG’s participation in this project is through SCaT – Social ConneXions and Technology.

SCAT is a 3 year project concluding in June 2009. It targets young people aged 12 to 25 who have a primary diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome or high-functioning autism and are isolated through either rural or social isolation .

This project matches a mentor with the young person, and by working together, achieve social interaction and community inclusion through the use of technology.

A program is individually designed for each participant, therefore each mentor-participant match will be different depending on what the young person wishes to achieve and what their skills and interests are.

By being matched one to one with a volunteer mentor, the young person learns social cues and how to modify their social interactions. They also learn how to use different technology to develop their social skills and networks.

After a period of getting to know and enhancing the young person's particular skills and interests; the mentor then introduces the young person to the wider community, by accessing different activities and groups. After confidence and self esteem has developed, the mentor gradually withdraws, leaving the individual integrated into their own sustainable social circle in the community.

The program operates in Baw Baw, Latrobe, South Gippsland and Bass Coast Shires. The program also needs volunteers to act as mentors. Please see our volunteer page.

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Teenage Vacation Program
The School Holiday Camping Program provides one four night camp in each of the school holiday breaks (4 camps per year). The program provides ‘time out’ for families while providing teenagers with a fun and safe camping experience.

Camp participants are matched 1:1 with young adult volunteers. Two paid camp leaders provide support to campers and volunteers as well as training for volunteers.

Currently this program is only availble in Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shires.

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ROADIES Program
ROADIES is a recreation respite program for adolescents. ROADIES provides ‘time out’ for families by providing teenagers with a variety of cultural, sporting and social activities along with heaps of fun in a safe and supportive environment. ROADIES offer day activities and overnight camps.

Teenagers of the ROADIES program are matched 1:1 with teenage volunteers. The Program Worker along with two paid adult staff provides ongoing support and training for volunteers.

Currently this programis only available in Latrobe City and Baw Baw Shire.

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