“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
The quote from Helen Keller applies to every aspect of life, including social interactions. And confidence in social settings can make all the difference, from forming friendships to living independently.
For NDIS participants, joining community programs can feel intimidating at first. Innovative Community Participation (ICP) flips that fear into opportunity.
These programs provide structured support, hands-on experiences, and meaningful connections that help participants step into the world with self-assurance and a sense of belonging.
People often get confused between Innovative community participation and community participation.
We’ll uncover everything about NDIS Innovative community participation and its role in building confidence.
What Actually Innovative Community Participation Is
Innovative Community Participation is all about taking part in activities that truly matter. These programs help NDIS participants develop real-life skills, follow their passions, and connect with others confidently.
Unlike traditional social activities that can feel passive or routine, innovative programs are purpose-driven, inclusive, and personalised to each individual’s goals.
Every activity is designed to empower, inspire, and build confidence, turning simple participation into meaningful growth.
E.g., a virtual book club or cooking class where participants collaborate remotely. The end goal of the activity is to build participants’ confidence, along with helping them learn new skills.
Ways It Builds Social Confidence
Mike is one of our participants from Baulkham Hills at True Belongings. He wants to win over his fear of talking to strangers, but wants to make new friends to avoid loneliness. We helped him build confidence and make new friends with a landscape painting workshop.
At the core, ICP help participants like Mike build social confidence in the following ways:
- Safe Environment: Participants practice social skills without fear or judgment, building comfort and ease in new situations.
- Skill Development: Every activity is designed to teach practical and interpersonal skills, helping participants navigate daily life with confidence.
- Gradual Exposure: Programs allow participants to progress at their own pace, turning small steps into big achievements.
- Peer Support: Connecting with like-minded participants reduces anxiety and fosters lasting friendships.
- Positive Reinforcement: Every success, big or small, is celebrated, boosting self-esteem and encouraging continued growth.
We believe growth happens outside the four walls, instead of just staying at home and watching TV, participate in community events near you.
Because the more you get involved, the more you feel confident.
Difference Between Innovative Community Participation & Community Participation
Here’s a clear side-by-side table comparing Community Participation and Innovative Community Participation:
|
Feature
|
Community Participation
|
Innovative Community Participation
|
|---|---|---|
|
Definition
|
Joining community activities
|
Personalised, creative engagement
|
|
Focus
|
Inclusion in standard activities
|
Tailored, goal-driven experiences
|
|
Approach
|
Traditional
|
Flexible, innovative, tech-enabled
|
|
Examples
|
Social groups, volunteering, local clubs
|
Adaptive art, customised outings, skill-building programs
|
|
Goal
|
Engagement and social connection
|
Confidence, skills, meaningful relationships
|
|
Experience
|
Passive, one-size-fits-all
|
Active, personalised, growth-focused
|
Both NDIS services are slightly different from each other; understanding both helps you choose the best as per the situation.
Tips for Participants & Families
Before participating in any NDIS innovative community participation activity, we recommend following these tips to reap the best benefits.
- Choose Programs That Match Interests: Participation is more rewarding when activities align with passions and goals.
- Start Small, Celebrate Wins: Even small achievements build confidence and encourage continued engagement.
- Seek Peer Support and Mentoring: Connecting with others who share experiences reduces anxiety and fosters lasting friendships.
- Track Progress: Keeping a record of milestones reinforces growth and highlights how far participants have come.
From choosing the perfect activity to tracking your complete progress from day 1, everything is possible with the True Belongings. Click here to discuss your interests with our support workers.
Conclusion
Confusion around NDIS Innovative community participation might be clear now. Now, you can take confident steps to participate in community programs.
With the right support by your side, you can join the activity of your choice to learn and grow in community settings. And, NDIS gives you that power.
To start involving yourself in the community, contact us here.
