#community participation

[lily-of-the-flame]

The Horse and the Squirrel

Belior needs a meaningless, ridiculous story, and it’s your job to help write it!  It should be as ridiculous as possible.  This google doc is open for anyone to edit, so go ahead and write the most ridiculous story you can!

Have as many plot hole as you'd like! It doesn't matter! The story is intended to be ridiculous and make no sense!

Belior would be playing a variation of this song while telling the story if books had audio.

Reblog so more people can participate!

Let's tell the dumbest story we can!

[aaacare]

Fostering Connection Through NDIS Community Participation

Engaging with your community is a vital aspect of personal growth and well-being. Whether it’s attending social events, joining recreational activities, or learning new skills, being an active participant in the community can significantly enhance your quality of life. Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), funding for community participation supports individuals with disabilities in accessing these opportunities. At AAAcare, we are dedicated to providing the resources and support needed for meaningful and enjoyable NDIS community participation.

What Is Community Participation Under NDIS?

NDIS community participation funding enables individuals to take part in activities that promote social interaction, skill development, and personal enjoyment. Examples of these activities include:

Recreational Activities: Sports, arts and crafts, music lessons, and other hobbies.

Social Events: Attending family gatherings, cultural festivals, or community celebrations.

Educational Opportunities: Classes, workshops, or vocational training to build skills and knowledge.

Volunteering: Giving back to the community while developing confidence and connections.

Group Outings: Trips to museums, parks, or other community spaces.

These activities are not just enjoyable but also contribute to a greater sense of inclusion, confidence, and fulfillment.

Benefits of Community Participation

Enhanced Social Skills: Regular interaction with others helps build communication and interpersonal skills.

Increased Confidence: Exploring new activities and meeting people fosters self-esteem and independence.

Broader Horizons: Community participation introduces individuals to new experiences, cultures, and opportunities.

Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Staying active and engaged combats feelings of isolation and promotes overall happiness.

How AAAcare Supports NDIS Community Participation

At AAAcare, we take pride in connecting participants to enriching community experiences. Here’s how we facilitate community participation:

Personalized Planning: We work with you to identify activities and opportunities that match your interests and goals.

Safe and Accessible Transport: Our NDIS transport services ensure you can reach community events and activities with ease.

Trained Support Workers: Our team provides guidance, encouragement, and assistance during activities to ensure a positive experience.

Building Independence: We encourage participants to take on new challenges, helping them develop skills and confidence.

Examples of Community Participation with AAAcare

Sports Clubs: Joining a local team or class to stay active and meet new friends.

Art and Music: Exploring creative outlets through community workshops or performances.

Social Groups: Connecting with peers through support groups or hobby clubs.

Volunteering: Giving back to the community while gaining valuable experiences and skills.

Cultural Events: Attending local festivals, exhibitions, or shows to broaden horizons.

Why Choose AAAcare for Community Participation?

Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your interests, ensuring every activity aligns with your personal goals.

Experienced Team: Our support workers are skilled in facilitating meaningful and enjoyable participation.

Local Knowledge: With a strong presence in the community, we know the best events, groups, and opportunities in your area.

Holistic Care: Beyond community participation, we provide a range of NDIS services to support your overall well-being.

How to Get Started with NDIS Community Participation

Review Your NDIS Plan: Ensure it includes funding for community participation.

Contact AAAcare: Reach out to us for a consultation to discuss your interests and goals.

Create a Plan: Together, we’ll identify activities and opportunities that best suit your preferences.

Enjoy Your Experience: With our support, you can confidently explore, connect, and grow within your community.

Conclusion

At AAAcare, we believe everyone deserves the chance to participate fully in their community. Through our personalized NDIS community participation services, we strive to create opportunities for connection, learning, and joy. Whether you’re looking to develop new skills, make friends, or simply explore what your community has to offer, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

[malaikahealthcare]

Participate in Your Community with NDIS - A Pathway to Empowerment

At Malaika Healthcare, we believe in the power of community participation, especially for individuals living with disabilities. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an incredible program designed to support Australians with disabilities, and one of its most empowering aspects is promoting community participation. For people with disabilities, participating in the community goes beyond just social involvement—it’s a vital part of building a fulfilling and independent life.

What is Community Participation under NDIS?

Community participation within the framework of NDIS refers to the engagement of individuals in meaningful activities within their local communities. Whether it's participating in events, joining local groups, or accessing facilities and services, the goal is to foster inclusion, develop social networks, and enhance quality of life.

For individuals with disabilities, being actively involved in community life is not just about socialization, but also about improving personal skills, gaining confidence, and contributing to society. NDIS has identified community participation as an essential part of its support services, and it offers a range of funding options to help participants take part in these activities.

How Does NDIS Support Community Participation?

NDIS support for community participation includes financial assistance and practical support for activities and programs that enable participants to engage in their local community. This could include:

Access to Social and Recreational Activities: NDIS participants can receive funding for activities such as attending community events, sports clubs, or hobby groups, which help to reduce social isolation and improve well-being.

Training and Skill Development: Through community programs, participants can develop valuable life skills. Whether it's attending a course or taking part in group activities, these opportunities can enhance self-esteem, increase independence, and help with everyday tasks.

Support for Transportation: One of the major barriers to community participation is the difficulty in getting to different locations. NDIS funding can assist with transportation costs, ensuring that participants can access their local communities without unnecessary stress or financial burden.

Employment and Volunteering Opportunities: The NDIS also provides support for individuals seeking employment or volunteering roles within their community. This not only helps to increase financial independence but also allows individuals to make meaningful contributions to society.

Connection with Support Networks: The NDIS facilitates access to support networks where participants can connect with like-minded individuals and organizations. By building these networks, NDIS participants can create lasting relationships that foster a sense of belonging and support.

Why is Community Participation Important?

Community participation is an essential aspect of leading a fulfilling life, regardless of whether someone has a disability. It promotes:

Independence: Taking part in community events and activities helps participants learn new skills and become more self-sufficient. Over time, this boosts confidence and autonomy.

Social Inclusion: Engaging in activities with others breaks down social barriers, enabling participants to forge connections and friendships, helping reduce the feeling of isolation that many individuals with disabilities experience.

Health and Well-being: Being part of a vibrant community can enhance mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that social engagement improves mental health and reduces the risk of depression.

Self-worth: Being involved in community life reinforces a sense of purpose and value, which can significantly enhance an individual’s self-esteem and overall outlook on life.

How to Get Started with Community Participation through NDIS?

If you’re looking to engage in community participation under NDIS, here are the steps you should take:

Understand Your NDIS Plan: The first step is to review your NDIS plan to check what type of community participation support is available to you. Your plan should outline how much funding is available for activities related to community involvement.

Consult with an NDIS Provider: Reaching out to providers like Malaika Healthcare can help you find the right community activities that align with your interests and goals. Providers can also guide you on how to maximize your NDIS funding for community participation.

Set Goals: Define your personal goals regarding community participation. Whether it’s meeting new people, improving social skills, or simply enjoying outdoor activities, clear goals will help guide the process and ensure you’re making the most of your NDIS funding.

Explore Activities: Look for local events, support groups, recreational activities, or volunteering opportunities that align with your interests. Many NDIS participants start with smaller group activities and gradually expand their involvement.

Track Your Progress: participation community NDIS  is a journey. Tracking your achievements and how your participation improves your overall quality of life will help when reviewing and renewing your NDIS plan.

Conclusion

At Malaika Healthcare, we understand that community participation is more than just an activity—it’s an opportunity to empower individuals and help them lead more independent, fulfilling lives. Through NDIS, individuals with disabilities can access vital support that promotes inclusion, builds self-esteem, and creates connections. Community participation allows everyone to engage with society, develop skills, and ultimately live life to the fullest. If you’re ready to start your journey toward meaningful community engagement, Malaika Healthcare is here to support you every step of the way.

[3sixty5care]

Benefits of Community Participation | 3sixty5care.com.au

Many studies have shown that community involvement has positive impacts on the individual. It provides a sense of belonging and a higher quality of life. It also encourages a healthy lifestyle.

This review adds to the evidence base supporting the effectiveness of community participation in yielding positive outcomes at organisational, community and individual levels in different settings globally.

Identifying opportunities

Community participation can be beneficial for individuals with disabilities, especially when they’re able to find social networks that fit their unique needs and interests. This may include joining inclusive sports teams, recreational activities, or community adult learning opportunities. These types of community involvement can also help individuals develop their skills and build a support network for self-determination and self-advocacy.

One study found that community participation can lead to more sustainable development of environmental projects, which benefits the local economy and promotes a sense of ownership among residents. It can also improve educational outcomes and boost community pride. Incentives can be used to encourage community participation, but they should be carefully evaluated to ensure that they’re fair and appropriate for all involved.

This research highlights the need for more robust evaluations of community participation programs that include measures of long-term outcomes and costeffectiveness. A framework for outcomes reporting should be developed that considers both process and community-level outcomes, while recognizing the impact of empowerment and power dynamics on reported outcomes.

Attending events

Whether it’s a weekly canoeing group or a monthly movie club, attending events allows you to meet others in your community. Make it a point to attend as regularly as possible so you can build rapport with the other members and show that you’re invested in the group’s success. You can also provide value by helping out at the event. Whether it’s arriving early with snacks or staying late to stack chairs, this shows your commitment and helps you get to know the other members of the group better.

Talking to people who share similar goals and challenges tends to be incredibly motivating and gives you access to knowledge that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re planning to attend an event, consider reaching out to the speakers in advance on LinkedIn and asking them if they’re interested in connecting at the event. They might be able to offer insights and advice that will help you with your business.

Getting involved

Community participation initiatives can be a powerful way to address the root causes of disease and increase community resilience. However, it is important for policy-makers to prioritise the outcomes of these programs and invest resources in ensuring that they are well-designed.

A review of the published literature on reported outcomes from community involvement programs has identified a range of benefits, both at the organizational and community levels. These include greater agency and empowerment, which can be facilitated through collaboration and sharing of power.

Getting involved in your local community can help you stay connected with those around you and build lasting relationships. It also helps you find meaning in what you do and provides a sense of purpose. Additionally, it shows customers and the community that you care about them and will improve your reputation as a business.

It can even boost employee morale and lead to better company performance. However, it is important to balance the time you spend on community engagement with your business goals.

Balancing your commitments

People who get involved in ndis social and community participation often say they feel a sense of pride and satisfaction when working to make their local environment better. This sense of accomplishment helps boost their mental wellbeing, reducing symptoms of depression and promoting life satisfaction. Individuals also benefit from the skills they develop while participating, expanding their knowledge and enhancing their leadership abilities.

Getting the right people to participate is key. You need to attract people who are directly affected by the issue you’re trying to address. This might be more challenging, but it’s worth the effort. For example, parents of teenage children may have different views on how to deal with the problem than teenagers themselves.

A key challenge is communicating to participants how their input affects the final decision or outcome of an initiative. Failure to do this can lead to feelings of disillusionment and discourage future engagement.

[townpostin]

Festivals Boost Local Employment in Monsoon Season

The arrival of the monsoons in India brings a wave of festivals that not only celebrate devotion but also create ample local employment opportunities. The monsoon season in India ushers in festivals that blend devotion with local employment, boosting the economy and fostering community participation. After the monsoons arrive, the wave of yearly festivals follows. The nine-day Rath Yatra…

[ammacare]

Embracing Community Participation at Amma Care

At Amma Care, we believe that exceptional aged care goes beyond meeting physical needs; it encompasses emotional, social, and mental well-being. A vital component of our holistic approach is community participation. Engaging seniors in community activities is essential for fostering a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection. But what does community participation entail, and why is it so important in aged care?

What is Community Participation?

Community participation involves the active involvement of individuals in various aspects of their community. For seniors, this means taking part in social, cultural, and recreational activities, as well as having a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. It’s about creating opportunities for older adults to remain active, engaged, and valued members of their community.

The Benefits of Community Participation

Mental Health and Well-Being:

Loneliness and isolation are common among seniors, leading to depression and anxiety. Community participation helps mitigate these feelings by fostering social connections and a sense of belonging.

Physical Health:

Staying active is crucial for maintaining physical health. Participating in community activities such as exercise classes, walking groups, and recreational sports helps seniors stay fit and healthy.

Cognitive Engagement:

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as educational workshops, games, and discussions helps keep the mind sharp. This can delay cognitive decline and promote overall brain health.

Sense of Purpose:

Being involved in community activities provides seniors with a sense of purpose. Contributing to community projects or volunteering can enhance their self-esteem and overall life satisfaction.

Social Support Networks:

Building and maintaining social connections through community participation creates a strong support network. This network is invaluable for providing emotional support and companionship.

How Amma Care Promotes Community Participation

At Amma Care, we are dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages and facilitates community participation. Here’s how we do it:

Diverse Activities:

We offer a wide range of activities tailored to the interests and abilities of our clients. From arts and crafts to music sessions, gardening, and technology classes, there’s something for everyone.

Community Events:

Regular events such as cultural celebrations, fairs, and social gatherings provide opportunities for our clients to engage with others and enjoy shared experiences.

Inclusive Decision-Making:

We actively involve our clients and their families in the planning and evaluation of our programs. By seeking their input, we ensure that our services are aligned with their preferences and needs.

Volunteer Programs:

Volunteering is a great way for seniors to stay active and give back to the community. We provide various volunteer opportunities, allowing our clients to contribute in meaningful ways.

Support Groups:

Our support groups offer a platform for seniors to share their experiences and gain support from their peers. These groups help build a sense of community and provide valuable emotional support.

Conclusion

Community participation is a cornerstone of the care we provide at Amma Care. By promoting active engagement and fostering meaningful connections, we enhance the quality of life for our clients. Our commitment to community participation ensures that every individual in our care feels valued, supported, and part of a vibrant community.

For more information on how we integrate community participation into our services, visit Amma Care Services. Join us in creating a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

[delicatelysublimeforester]

Exploring the Future of Saskatoon's Green Spaces: CALL TO ACTION

[yhsupport]

Benefits of Community Participation

Community participation involves involving a group of people in projects that affect society and provides many benefits. It can help improve health outcomes, increase confidence in businesses, and empower individuals.

It also keeps decision-makers accountable to the community. When communities feel that their input has been included in the final outcome they are more likely to accept and support it.

Increased Wellbeing

The involvement of community members in the decision-making process helps to ensure that all viewpoints are considered. This can lead to more inclusive and diverse solutions that address a wide range of needs. It also encourages a greater sense of ownership and accountability for community projects.

Taking part in community activities also gives individuals a sense of purpose and a sense of belonging, which can improve overall mental health and wellbeing.

Additionally, it can serve as a stress-reliever and provides a valuable social outlet for people facing difficult life circumstances.

However, the limited number of studies that report on outcomes demonstrates the need for more rigorous evaluations of community participation programs. In particular, RCTs should be conducted to better understand how different approaches can impact community and individual health outcomes.

Improved Public Health

Community participation is a critical part of any project or organization that impacts society. It ensures that everyone’s ideas are considered in final decisions and outcomes, improving the overall quality of life for all.

Several studies have found that ndis community participation programs improve health outcomes. However, they need more robust evaluations to identify causal links between program components and desired outcomes.

Additionally, community involvement has been linked to improved mental health and social skills. It also helps individuals develop a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing feelings of loneliness and depression. Moreover, it can encourage individuals to engage in income-generating activities and foster economic empowerment. In addition, it can address issues of homelessness and poverty by addressing root causes rather than simply alleviating symptoms.

Improved Confidence in Public Safety

People feel more secure in their homes and neighborhoods when they see that law enforcement officials are addressing local crime problems. Neighborhood watch programs, community policing initiatives, and educational workshops help to build trust between citizens and authorities and improve the overall feeling of safety in communities.

People often have unique talents, skills, cultural heritage, and experiences that can be used to identify and address problems in the community. This type of participation can lead to more innovative solutions and ensure that a problem is being addressed from multiple perspectives.

While some studies report that community empowerment is a beneficial outcome of participating in community initiatives, there are debatable definitions and measures of empowerment, and more research is needed to establish stronger linkages between participation and desired outcomes.

Increased Business Performance

Community participation is a powerful tool for businesses looking to improve their bottom line. In fact, research shows that customers are more likely to support a business that prioritizes giving back over one that doesn’t.

Community involvement also benefits businesses by boosting employee morale, increasing customer loyalty and strengthening brand recognition. Moreover, companies that prioritize community engagement are seen as more trustworthy than their impersonal competitors.

NDIS social and community participation can be defined as a continuum that changes over time. Functional Participation involves involving local committees or groups in pre-planned programs and activities. Interactive Participation, on the other hand, involves assisting local groups in analyzing their needs and making decisions. It also includes helping them to address and change systems and situations that affect them. It is this level of community involvement that has the most potential for sustainable change.

Addressing Issues of Homelessness and Poverty

Communities that participate in addressing the causes and consequences of homelessness and poverty can create sustainable initiatives. In addition to supporting employment and educational opportunities, community programs can provide assistance with supplemental income, housing, utilities, and childcare. This helps to reduce dependence on government support and break the cycle of incarceration and homelessness.

A common myth is that people who are homeless choose not to work. This ignores the barriers that people face in finding employment, such as mental illness and lack of education or training.

Functional participation involves consulting with community members for their opinions and feedback. This can lead to participation fatigue for some individuals. Interactive participation allows community members to share in decision-making but does not give them control over decisions.

[polariscare45]

Community and Social Participation

[andybrawler]

Happy 23rd anniversary Klonoa 2: Lunatea’s Veil! To celebrate, I want everyone to share their favorite memories of the game and/or series! Say as many as you like! :>

[maximumsupportservices]

Household Tasks in Brisbane

Household tasks are the everyday chores you do to keep your home clean and comfortable. These include cooking, laundry, shopping, and maintenance.

Several services and organisations offer assistance with household tasks Brisbane. These providers can be found through local councils, community centres, and online directories. They can provide flexible options based on your needs and preferences. To know more about Household Tasks Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

Cleaning is an essential task for every household. It involves the tidying up of bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. It also includes vacuuming, mopping floors, and dusting. Cleaning services may include specialised tasks such as carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning.

Individuals who need assistance with household chores can seek out local home care agencies, community centres, and NDIS representative to explore options for support. They can also consult online directories and support service databases for information.

NDIS participants can also receive assistance with household chores through their individualized support plans. This way, they can live more independently and enjoy their time at home. They can also stay healthy and active while achieving their independence goals.

Meal preparation is the process of preparing entire meals in advance. It involves planning, cooking and storing food for later consumption. Meals are often prepared in bulk and stored in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer until they’re ready to eat.

Meal prep is a tedious chore that demands significant time and effort. In addition, it requires specialised skill and knowledge to craft nutritious meals that meet specific health goals. For this reason, meal prep services offer a more convenient, cost-effective alternative to the DIY approach. Many Brisbane meal delivery services provide a diverse menu selection with a strong focus on nutritional value. These services are ideal for busy professionals and health-conscious individuals. Some even offer kid-friendly options to pacify fussy eaters. Youfoodz, Nourish’d Meal Co and Dietlicious are among the many popular meal delivery services in Brisbane.

Laundry is a household chore that requires time and effort. But fortunately, laundry services in Brisbane are available to help individuals save time and energy while enjoying a stress-free lifestyle. These services provide professional cleaning, convenient pickup and drop-off options, and fast turnaround times.

When choosing a laundry service, look for a provider with competitive pricing and service packages that align with your budget. Also, consider the company’s reputation and customer reviews. Lastly, be sure to clearly communicate your laundry preferences (such as detergent types and folding preferences) to ensure an optimal service experience.

Wholesome laundry services use eco-friendly practices to minimize their water and energy consumption, ensuring that your clothes are cleaned safely while being mindful of the environment. This means you can enjoy a hassle-free household without sacrificing your health or the quality of your clothes.

Shopping is a favourite pastime in Brisbane. The city is full of shopping hotspots that are a welcome break from the sterility of the big malls in the suburbs. One local favourite is Bulimba's Oxford Street, a quirky destination with chic homeware stores, fashion boutiques and plenty of cafes and restaurants.

The trendy Paddington suburb is another popular spot for unique shops. Its quaint streets, Given Terrace and Latrobe Terrace, are lined with antique shops, books, art, and one-of-a-kind clothing designs.

Op shops are also tried and tested stomping grounds for bargain hunters in Brisbane, where you can bag designer clothing, shoes and accessories for a fraction of the retail price. Many op shops also donate their proceeds to charity, so you're helping out the community while you score a bargain.

A clean and well-maintained home is a crucial component of overall wellbeing. However, for some people with disabilities, household tasks can be challenging. This is why the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides home support services that include household tasks as part of an individualized plan. These home care services can include support for daily chores such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and shopping. To know more about Household Tasks Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

If you’re a participant of the NDIS and are looking for reliable NDIS providers who can provide household task support, Almond Care can help. We have a team of qualified and compassionate home support workers who can assist you with a wide range of domestic duties, all in the comfort of your own home. We can also help you train to perform these tasks independently over time.

[goldenstars-aba]

Occupational therapy has come a long way in aiding children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ABA therapy in Houston, Texas, has numerous success stories of children with ASD who have shown significant improvements through this route. ASD affects the child’s ability to perform everyday tasks due to sensory processing difficulties, and occupational therapy aims to mitigate these issues.

[lily-of-the-flame]

I have two things to say:

1: Go add to The Horse and the Squirrel! Anyone can! Here, I'll put in the link here:

2: Belior's ask box is still open, and it would be awesome to be able to answer any questions. Seriously, any. The only questions he won't fully answer are spoilers, and with that he'll still answer to the best of his ability. You can find him at @belior.

3: I don't have a third thing to say.

4: I'm going to tag my mutuals. I've been trying to hold off on that for a while to avoid spamming them, but I just really want some community participation:

@cephandriusnimi @sorchasolas @luminethefoxincabin13-ts @tenkaoru @hnoc-system @kiwi-juice-art

[melbourneeternity]

Community Participation Techniques

Community participation techniques are a variety of methods for engaging citizens in the development of their own communities. They cover a broad range of activities and are categorized into stages.

It is important to appeal to citizens individually when encouraging them to participate. This shows that you value their time and opinions. It also boosts their self-confidence that they can make a difference.

Identifying Issues

Community involvement in research has been shown to improve the outcomes of environmental management. Citizens that participate feel empowered, are more informed, and believe they can make a difference. Identifying the challenges and barriers to community participation is important for program administrators and researchers.

To do so, they should understand how their partnerships evolve and what impact that has on community engagement. They also need to know if their community meetings meet the needs of community members and the communities they serve. For example, do the meetings take place in the community’s most prominent language and languages? Are they in a location convenient to community members and at times that they are likely to attend?

Interviews with 23 specialists and experts with experiences in community participation were conducted using a semi-structured individual approach. Openended responses were coded and analyzed simultaneously. Among the key issues identified in this qualitative study were the misperception of community and health system staff about the importance of participation programs, low understanding by the health personnel about community participation processes and non-cooperation of other stakeholder governmental organizations in community participation due to inconsistency and lack of intersectoral cooperation.

Creating a Task Force

To address community participation issues, a task force is often formed. These groups can have a broad range of members and operate independently. Some have a small leadership committee that handles logistics and ensures the group is moving in the same direction.

Recruiting members is a key step. It's important to find people who can be part of the team - for example, people with a similar interest or experience in the issue and those who have credibility and access to different parts of the community. Depending on the issue, it may be helpful to include community leaders and other organizations that can help with outreach.

Many communities with organized community-based networks of advocates and coalitions have found that these groups can be a great resource in helping to identify community voices to bring to the task force table. In addition to this, officials and participants have reported that having high-quality data analysis and trainings for both government and community taskforce members can level the playing field for information and help all stakeholders participate from an informed perspective.

Conducting Listening Sessions

The goal of community engagement is to build a two-way relationship, demonstrate respect for people's lived experiences and defer to their expertise. It is critical to understand how to do this when conducting listening sessions because if you are not doing it right, participants will feel like they are not being heard.

Listening sessions are facilitated discussions among groups of people to collect information and feedback on a specific topic. The UNITE Initiative used a variety of methods for listening to the community, including onsite public events and remote virtual meetings.

Prior to the session, it is important to do desktop research to determine any upstream factors that could be impacting community participation. It is also helpful to have a clear purpose and agenda for the session so participants know what to expect. Lastly, be prepared for periods of silence during the discussion and to recognize that participants may not always answer questions immediately. This is normal.

Creating a Community Action Plan

After a ndis social and community participation has identified issues and held forums, it is important to document the information that was received. The best way to do this is with a community action plan.

This is a tool to help identify community members with the necessary experience, skills, funding, materials and networks to achieve desired goals. Recruiting and maximizing these resources increases the effectiveness of community action planning.

The community action plan also provides a framework for identifying future work and setting measurable outcomes to be achieved over time. It is an ever-changing blueprint that can be modified as the community needs change.

Communication is crucial to ensuring continued support and commitment from all sectors of the community. This includes maintaining a schedule of regular planning group meetings and additional public forum meetings, distributing the community action plan to key stakeholders, and communicating any modification to the action steps with all appropriate audiences. Refer to IAP2’s Public Participation Spectrum for guidance on defining success and reviewing resources for measuring progress.

[davidjhonsblog]

Building Strong Communities: Community Participation in Melbourne, Including Alaska Care

In today's diverse and interconnected world, community participation is a fundamental pillar for fostering connection, support, and a sense of belonging. Melbourne, a city known for its vibrant culture and inclusivity, embraces the spirit of community engagement. In this guest blog, we highlight the significance of community participation in Melbourne, with a special focus on Alaska Care—an organisation that has made a positive impact on community involvement in the region.