Minda’s transition program helping teens explore new post-school pathways

Advertorial

Minda Inc is the largest not-for-profit intellectual disability service provider in South Australia, providing home and living services (SIL), housing, children’s services, short term respite accommodation, day options programs, community support and allied health services.

In 2023, Minda introduced a new transition program to their suite of services aimed at teenagers in their last two years of high school to help them move smoothly into adulthood.

The transition from high school to a young adult environment can be an exciting but also daunting experience, with an abundance of choice presented to school leavers.

After many co-design sessions with several schools and families, Minda designed the program to foster a strong sense of social connection and create familiarity for those thinking about possibly transitioning to Day Options in the future.

The 2023 program was a success, paving the way for Minda’s MyPathway to Day Options program to return in 2024.

The program will give high school leavers a bite-sized taste of the regular Day Options programs on offer.

Beginning in Term 2, the program runs year-round and is open to registrations at any time, providing students with an opportunity to take part in skill-based workshops, such as seasonal gardening, cooking, ICT, creative arts, music, leisure and recreation and more.

Students who took part in last year’s program were able to build strong and meaningful friendships, as well as develop a new range of skills.

Zoe was one of the graduates from last year’s MyPathway to Day Options program, who has successfully moved from the program into regular Day Options programs.

Zoe’s mother, Jackie, said the transition out of school was made simple through the support of many staff members and made a “big decision” very simple.

“The program provided a great foundation for Zoe to transition into Day Options. Being able to meet staff and become familiar with the surroundings made the transition seamless,” Jackie said.

“During the program, Zoe was able to create meaningful friendships with other young adults, while taking part in a wide range of engaging programs.”

The connections that Zoe developed during the MyPathway to Day Options program have continued since transitioning to Day Options, allowing her to feel comfortable in her new surroundings.

“Zoe still sees several of the others who transitioned to Day Options. These people started the same journey together and now enjoy some of the same Day Options programs,” Jackie said.

“She has enjoyed the Day Options programs that she has been involved in, with each providing a great opportunity to learn new skills and build friendships.”

Elke was another student who successfully transitioned to Minda’s Day Options programs.

Her mother, Carly, said that she was grateful that she “stumbled across” the program.

“It was perfect timing. I stumbled across Minda during an expo and wanted to learn more about Day Options. Little did I know, the MyPathway to Day Options program was about to start,” Carly said.

The discovery of the program resulted in the start of an exciting journey for both Elke and her family.

“We were ecstatic when we heard about the program. You can be overwhelmed with the choices that are available, but we are certain that we have made the right choice,” Carly said.

“The program did a great job in preparing us with what to expect from Day Options. The staff were incredibly supportive and friendly, and the different activities were fun and engaging.”

MyPathway to Day Options will hold a free “Come and Try” Day where teens close to graduation and their families can take part in a trial day and see what the program is all about.

The open day will be held at Minda’s Brighton Lifestyle Precinct between 9.30am and 12.30pm on Saturday 21 September.

For any enquiries or to book your spot, please contact Daniel Smith, Senior Manager, Community and Lifestyle Services ([email protected] or 0417 798 648) or Anthony Garzo, Client Service Manager, Community Supports ([email protected] or 0439 480 183).

You can learn more about all Minda’s Community and Lifestyle services here – https://mindainc.com.au/your-services/community-lifestyle-services