SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

(incorporating Disability Services)

Contact Person :  Marita Edwards

Position              :  Manager – Support and Community Services

Telephone         :  (03) 51354343

Fax                     :  (03) 51 354393

Email                  :  marita.edwards@igain.vic.edu.au

i-GAIN provides support, programs and training & education services for people in the Latrobe City and surrounding area, with intellectual, physical, sensory and dual disabilities, neurological impairments and acquired brain injury.                      

Our staff are dedicated to the provision of a high quality and enjoyable service that assist individuals to meet their personal needs and goals.

i-GAIN values planning and programming that is centred on the individual and inclusive of people and activities important to that person.

The range of services we offer includes:

Futures for Young Adults

Futures for Young Adults (FYA) is a program for young people making the transition from school to adult life.  This program runs up to three years and provides information, advice and support as they plan ahead for their future.

FFYA provides many opportunities for young people to explore options available to them. 

It incorporates:

• Vocational education and training
• Supported community participation
• Guidance and mapping for future employment options
• Personal development choices

The program is conducted in the community at the i-GAIN Future’s Farm and at i-GAIN’s Commercial Road premises. 

Adult Day Activity Support Services (ADASS)

A day program for adults over sixteen who are eligible under the Disability Services Act (DSA) 1991 or the Intellectually Disabled Persons' Services (IDPS) Act 1986.

This program provides opportunities for people with a disability to experience community participation, training and support in life skills that will assist them to enjoy greater independence and enhanced quality of life.

Conducted in the community at the i-GAIN Future’s Farm and at i-GAIN’s Commercial Road premises there is strong emphasis on enjoyable social and recreational activities.

Respite Programs

Respite Programs are aimed at persons with a disability between the ages of 18 and 60 who rely on the support of a carer in their living situation.  The program provides options with a skill development and recreational focus.  Respite programs can be individual or group based with flexibility for eligible participants.

Friendship Groups

A social recreational option for young adults between the ages of 16-35.  Friendship Groups run monthly and bi-monthly providing support and an opportunity to maintain independence and involvement in the local community.

Futures Facilities

i-GAIN Support and Community Services' participants enjoy the additional facilities of the Futures Farm and Café.  Both facilities offer an extension of training, program and activity options.

Futures Farm

Nestled in the foothills of the Strezlecki Ranges the Farm is located on Chalk Road, Moe South.   Daily transport to and from the farm provides an outdoor experience where people can engage in general horticultural activities, undertake accredited or work based training or  just relax and enjoy a sense of freedom in a tranquil environment. 

  Cafe

Operating every week day (public and some school holidays excluded), the Futures Café provides lunch and catering orders to the general public.  The Café offers a genuine work experience opportunity for those with a leaning to food preparation and the hospitality industry.  Accredited training courses in some hospitality units may be available to eligible participants.