EDAR offers a wide range of programs at both service locations and across community settings. Each person’s timetable is developed from the outcomes of their Individual Support Plan.

EDAR staff provide support to each client aligned with the identified support needs. Participation in all programs is recorded by program support staff according to the goals, needs and expectations of the client.

The organisation has long standing relationships with external services which provide clients with opportunities to expand their social networks and further develop their skills.

Arts Project Australia
A number of clients access this program which complements EDAR’s art sessions. The art is displayed and available for sale through Arts Project Australia.

Arts & Craft
EDAR provide a range of art and craft activities which offer clients the opportunity to express their ability and creativity. Staff are highly skilled in developing sessions and sourcing resources to encourage meaningful engagement. The sessions develop a participant’s social skills whilst achieving tangible outcomes and products.

Drama
EDAR encourages self direction and expression involving clients wherever possible to develop sessions. Clients have created performances which are unique to the group as well as structured pieces from ‘Grease’ and ‘Blues Brothers’. This program develops the social abilties and self-esteem of participants, provides opportunities to contribute to EDAR community events and facilitates social interactions in a variety of settings.

Further Education
EDAR is an accredited Enterprise Registered Training Organisation. Experienced tutors and instructors deliver modules under the qualification of Certificate I in Transition Education.


Kevin Heinz Garden Centre
Clients are supported by EDAR staff alongside a group of volunteers in planting and maintaining garden plots as part of a community project. The experience gained is also applied to service gardening programs.

Leisure and Recreation
Clients are encouraged to participate in physical activities which promote well-being and a healthy lifestyle. Participation is individualised to meet the requirements and goals of each client. Community facilities are sourced based on their ability to complement the activity. Staff liaise with the Metro Access Workers from local councils ensuring they have updated information on opportunities within the local community.

Activities include:
• Basketball;
• Bowling;
• Bushwalking;
• Creative dance;
• Golf;
• Gym [program developed by gym staff];
• Riding for the Disabled [RDA];
• Swimming and water aerobics;
• Yoga.

Life Skills
EDAR supports clients, families and carers to identify areas of their lives in which skill development is required to enhance and maintain function and independence. This is offered through activities such as:
• Centre Maintenance;
• Community Access – independent and supported;
• Cooking [structured];
• Laundry;
• Meal Preparation [morning tea / lunches];
• Personal care;
• Shopping.

Meals on Wheels
Staff support clients to pick up and deliver meals as part of their volunteering experience. This program offers an opportunity for clients to engage with and contribute to the lives of elderly community members who may be quite isolated due to their personal circumstances.

Music
EDAR is fortunate to have extremely talented staff members who share their musicality in a variety of ways to encourage clients music appreciation and expression. In addition, community based programs enable groups to engage with or experience a variety of local and cultural performances.

Neighbourhood Houses
Groups participate in programs such as literacy, numeracy, life skills, gardening and art.

Work Experience
Clients have the experience of developing work skills in a supported environment alongside individuals from other services. Clients are encouraged to work as independently as they can, and EDAR staff provide support when required.


EDAR receives funding from ACFE which supports the continued development of both accredited and non-accredited programs. These programs are developed to meet the requirements of the participants and include:

• Advocacy;
• Beginning a career;
• Budgeting and Banking;
• Communication;
• Computers for Learning;
• Functional Literacy;
• Individual Learning Plan;
• Literacy for Everyday Living & Community Integration;
• Problem solving/decision making.

Clients participate in sessions specifically designed to meet their individual needs.