Page 44 - MDS final deliverable

3b. SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
11. IMPLEMENT A PEER MENTOR PROGRAM
Introduce a Peer Mentor program, especially with the Mental Health participants. Participants with mental illness often feel judged by family and friends and therefore feel comfortable seeking support from others with shared experiences. There is desire shared by all to help others who are going through a similar situation, so that others do not need to go through the same things that they have.
Participants are generally keen to reciprocate the support they have received from MDS and are excited to engage and help other like them in need.
12. ESTABLISH SPORTING GROUPS
MDS can start more sporting groups internally as well as tap into external sporting events. (Similar to school PSSA). The sporting activities can include team sports such as Rugby, Basketball club, Cricket
Bowling and Gym). This can be supported by a yearly mini Olympics event, which will again give participants and their family members an opportunity to showcase their talents and socialise with each other.
13. HOLD MORE SOCIAL EVENTS FOR PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR FAMILIES
MDS can start organising more social events that include MDS staff, participants and their family members. The invite could include non-NDIS/MDS participants as well for a small cover charge fee. The events could include movie nights, BBQ days or theme parties. Some events could include Speed dating events to introduce MDS participants and non-participants to each other.
Commercial in confidence
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