How to Connect with Other People with Disabilities in the Illawarra and South Coast

Making connections with others who share similar life experiences can create a sense of belonging and community. For people with disability in the Illawarra and South Coast region, there are many pathways to build these valuable connections.

Local Disability Organisations and Groups

The Illawarra region has a rich network of disability support organisations that can help you connect with others:

• Illawarra Disability Alliance brings together disability providers to deliver better outcomes for people with disability

• The Disability Trust offers social groups and recreation activities throughout the Illawarra

• Infinite Disability Services provides support services and social connection opportunities

• Interchange Illawarra runs social support programs including weekday activities, Friday night outings, Saturday activities and weekends away

Reach out directly to these organisations. Many offer regular meetups, social events, and programs designed to bring people together.

Recreational Activities and Sport Programs for people with disabilities

Sport and recreation can be a fantastic way to meet people while staying active:

• The Disability Trust Sport & Recreation Services organises recreation, drama and dance groups for people with disability

• Special Olympics Australia has programs in the Illawarra region for people with intellectual disability

• The new Inclusive Teams Program trains local clubs to support people with disabilities to access mainstream sporting opportunities

"It makes us one and that's the way it should be," says Vikings president Spiro Lozenkovski about their inclusive rugby program.

Do you enjoy team sports? Or prefer creative activities? Finding groups aligned with your interests makes forming connections natural.

Community Events and Expos

Events create perfect opportunities to meet others in the disability community:

• The Illawarra Disability Options Expo (IDO) is an annual event linking people with disability to services across the Illawarra

• Local council events often include accessibility features to encourage participation by people with disability

These gatherings let you connect face-to-face with both service providers and other community members.

Transport Support

Getting to social events is crucial for making connections:

• Transport services like the ones at Infinite Disability Services provide accessible transportation for social outings, educational activities, employment and recreational events

• Some NDIS packages include funding for transport assistance

• Ask local disability organisations about shared transport options to regular events

Can't get to events? Many organisations can help arrange transport so you don't miss out on social opportunities.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering creates meaningful connections while giving back:

• Community Helping Hands offers volunteer experiences in supported environments

• Volunteer positions are available across Wollongong, Illawarra and South Coast for disability support

• Many positions involve companionship and social support

Volunteering puts you in direct contact with others who share your values and interests.

NDIS Support for Social Connection

Your NDIS plan may include funding specifically for social participation:

• NDIS core support budgets can often be used for social support group activities

• Remote Community Connectors can help you understand how to use your NDIS plan for social connections

• Local Area Coordinators (LACs) like Uniting in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region can guide you toward social opportunities

Ask your NDIS planner: "How can my plan help me build more social connections in my community?"

Digital Connections

When in-person meetings aren't possible:

• Many disability organisations now offer online social groups

• Local Facebook groups for specific disability communities can help you connect virtually

• Ask organisations about their digital engagement options

Tips for Making Connections

• Start small with one group or activity that genuinely interests you

• Bring a support person to new events if that helps you feel more comfortableBe patient-building meaningful connections takes time

• Look for inclusive mainstream activities as well as disability-specific ones

• Ask direct questions about accessibility before attending events

Finding your community might take time, but the rewards of connection are worth the effort. Every person you meet broadens your social network and opens doors to new friendships.

Remember that local councils, disability advocacy groups, and service providers all want to help you build connections. Your perfect social fit is out there in the Illawarra and South Coast community.