What is social and community participation?
Social and community participation involves meeting people with similar interests and taking part in various social and community activities. It means going to places where others go, engaging in activities with others, and choosing pursuits that one enjoys. This participation can vary greatly from person to person and might include activities such as visiting a local cafe, joining a netball team, bushwalking with a friend, attending a craft class, gaining work experience, or volunteering.
Why is it important?
Social and community participation is important because it can:
help you feel included and connected to others
give you opportunities to build relationships with friends
grow your social networks and help you feel more included
increase your confidence and build your ability to participate with your peers
help you develop skills to be more independent and feel safe in your community
build skills and relationships that help with getting a job
help you find activities you enjoy doing.
It can be good to try different activities. You may not know if you enjoy something until you try it. It may feel different at first, but with the right support and help you may find activities you enjoy. These activities can also change over time as your needs and interests change. Research shows that activities you enjoy and people who make you feel valued will give you the most benefits.
What we offer Caring Abode?
Attending local festivals or community fairs.
Participating in a book club or reading group.
Volunteering at a local charity or nonprofit organization.
Taking a class, such as painting, cooking, or dancing.
Going on group hikes or nature walks.
Visiting a local cafe or coffee shop to meet friends.
Attending religious services or joining a faith-based group.
Participating in a neighborhood clean-up or beautification project.
Joining a hobby group, like a knitting circle or gaming club.
Taking part in community theater or a music group.
Attending workshops or seminars on topics of interest.
Participating in local government or town hall meetings.
Engaging in group fitness activities, like yoga or aerobics classes.
Visiting museums, galleries, or cultural events with others.