WHAT do we do
Extended Families Australia facilitates positive connections between people within a community to provide support to children with disabilities and their families. Extended Families seeks to widen social networks, empower individuals, promote inclusion and strengthen the bonds people have within their local area. The organisation breaks down barriers by changing social attitudes and creating opportunities.
Extended Families Australia provides meaningful and lasting volunteer support to children a disability and their families, many of whom are socially isolated and in need of companionship, flexible support and practical assistance in their day-to-day lives.
Children and families who are supported by Extended Families have access to a number of flexible support options founded upon volunteering models including individualised volunteer matching for social, recreational and respite support, supported play groups, friendship groups and social events.
Information about specific programs can be found
here.
WHERE do we do it
The Extended Families program operates in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia.
HOW do we do it
Extended Families Australia is a not-for-profit incorporated association run by a small, dedicated team of paid staff and volunteers, including an organisational manager and regional and program coordinators. The agency is overseen by a voluntary Committee of Management.
The funding for Extended Families services comes from the Department of Human Services, Disability Services and from the Department of Health, Home and Community Care. In addition, the organisation raises money though fundraising activities, donations and receives generous support from Charitable Trusts for specific projects or activities.
Through the simple gift of friendship, Extended Families has made a real difference to the lives of hundreds of children and their families.
