You see, when people say, “We love the NDIS!”, they genuinely mean it. The National Disability Insurance Scheme has saved lives, saved finances, and been a beacon of hope for Australians. The support that the scheme provides? Timeless and Priceless. But the best part of the scheme is how it helps people build real and genuine connections.

Those Community Participation Activities NDIS participants are always encouraged to try out how these connections are built. Lifelong friendships have started at an NDIS-backed art class. Business partnerships have started an NDIS-backed entrepreneurship class.

But many people see these activities as sides, when they’re full-course meals. And this, friend, is the “glad tidings” you’re about to find.

Ready? Let’s jump in!

Three BIG benefits of community participation activities 

Australia’s Department of Health’s Mental Health Arm warns that one-third of Australian adults risk being depressed if they don’t find a community. It is already hard as it is for adults without disabilities or who don’t need care to find good people. How much more those needing care, their carers, and their families who have to pause their lives?

The NDIS created these community activities to give its subscribers a community. And each activity was created to offer each participant three BIG benefits. These are:

1. Artistic adventures

A unique creativity exists in every single person that’s just waiting to be explored. Whether it’s in art clubs or on a basketball court, people can find ways to express themselves in a way that screams, “ART!” The NDIS community activities provide this platform for its subscribers.

2. Active lifestyle

These activities are not designed to keep you sitting all day. Even the book clubs. There is a lot of movement. Doing activities with like-minded people lifts your mood and can provide a big boost to your health meter.

3. Community

The secret is in the name: Community Participation Activities. Doing stuff you like with your kind of crowd can make tasks as tedious as lifting heavy things incredibly fun. You will forge (sometimes lifelong) connections, learn about people and cultures, and grow as a person.

Top 10 activity spotlights

To help you choose one out of the much-talked-about Community Participation Activities NDIS participants like Samatha are always encouraged to try out, here is our top 10 list:

1. Art therapy and creative workshops

NDIS’ ratified artists and art teachers host classes and workshops where they use art as a means to help people build connections. Participants learn how to paint, make things out of clay and so on. If you’re taciturn but want somewhere you can express your feelings without having to say much, these classes are just for you.

2. Adaptive dance & movement classes

NDIS Adaptive Dance & Movement Classes, participants do yoga, dance, walks, runs, and aerobics both on land and in water! It’s great for cardio, which means it’s for everyone! Group fitness is great for the mind and body, according to the Department of Health, so try it!

3. Community gardening

Community gardening is NDIS’s way of using horticultural therapy to improve lives. Participants in these sessions plant their favourite flowers, vegetables and more in a shared garden bed or green room. If you enjoy being out in the open and touching grass, this is for you!

4. Cooking workshops

Free cooking classes are also on offer as one of the Community Participation Activities NDIS participants are encouraged to try out. Learn how to make your favourite meals and other meals that interest you.

Pro Tip: Start with meals that use five ingredients or fewer to build your confidence in the kitchen.

5. Music jam sessions or choirs

Sing your heart out with people who enjoy the same music that you do, and learn about music in general at one of the many NDIS community music jams sessions or choirs. Learn instruments, compose music, and take your singing out of the bathroom and before an audience! Group singing is also very therapeutic, so you’ll be doing more than just pursuing an interest!

6. Bowling

If you’re a competitive person, you can sign up for a mini NDIS-backed bowling league and unleash your inner competitive beast. If you don’t have the arm strength for it, there are NDIS helpers ready to assist you and allow you to have as much fun as you ought to!

7. Animal shelter volunteering

Volunteering is great, but have you tried to volunteer at a puppy shelter with the cute little puppies who are running around, cosying up to you and giving you little kisses? Cuteness overload! If you’re a person needing care, you may see some animals who need care just like you do, and you’ll definitely feel a kinship. Try out this activity at least once.

8. Local market stalls (crafts & produce)

The NDIS also helps people find their entrepreneurial spirit. First, they teach you how to make goods like jam, jewellery, art, clothing and so on, and teach you how to make a living selling them. Then, they take you to a weekend market to practice what you’ve learned. It’s great for confidence-building, especially if you’ve always wanted to run a business.

9. Photography excursions

If you love taking pictures with your smartphone or you have a camera that you’re yet to fully explore, sign up for an NDIS community photography excursion. You’ll be introduced to photography gradually, such that you can even make a business out of it!

10. Inclusive learning and short courses

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to code, build apps, or do wonders with a computer, the NDIS has inclusive learning and short courses you can sign up for. Any class you sign up for is tailored to suit your ability, which makes it all the more interesting. The learning isn’t limited to computer stuff, either. Even basic literacy and numeracy skills classes are available.

Conclusion

Samantha’s story is not just a success story. It’s a testament to the power of positivity that these community activities hold.

Take full advantage of your NDIS plan. Log in to your NDIS portal and look under “Core Supports” for “community participation activities NDIS”, talk to your manager, finalise funding, and voila! You’re one step away from a happier life!

Visit the official NDIS community participation page for step-by-step participation in these activities for more information.