1300 195 578
1300 195 578
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Book Now

Connect & Create – An Intergenerational Program Program for Seniors

 

For over two years, Share My Ability has been proud to host the Connect & Create Intergenerational Program – a truly special initiative that bridges the gap between generations within our community.

Run by our parent organisation, NADO Disability & Aged Care, in partnership with Wentworth Healthcare, this program brings together seniors aged 65+ and preschoolers aged 3-5 for meaningful, hands-on activities.

Commissioned by Wentworth Healthcare (provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network) as part of the Australian Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the program’s main focus is to keep older people healthy, active, and socially connected for longer, while nurturing confidence and creativity in young children and fostering stronger, more united communities where every generation is valued. It has become a much-loved Penrith seniors program, held weekly (each Tuesday) and is completely free, including tea, coffee and light refreshments for seniors.

From painting pottery and music therapy to our latest favourite, teddy bear making, the sessions are filled with laughter, creativity, and genuine caring moments. We’ve seen preschoolers from Penrith City Council’s Childcare Centres grow from being shy and reserved into curious and confident children. Seniors, too, have blossomed – building not only special bonds with the children, but also lasting friendships other group members.

As one participant, Wendy, shared when asked if she’d miss the children:
“Oh yes! But I’ll be coming back next time!”

What makes Connect & Create so wonderful is that it goes beyond the activities themselves. For seniors, it’s an opportunity to stay engaged, creative, and connected. For children, it’s a chance to develop social skills, empathy, and a sense of belonging. And for all of us, it’s a beautiful example of how inclusion can transform lives!

At Share My Ability, we’re proud to be the home of such a meaningful program – one that promotes inclusion, community enrichment, and friendship across the generations. After two successful years, we look forward to many more moments of laughter, learning, and connection. Because when different generations come together, something truly magical happens. 

Are you a Penrith Senior and looking to join our Connect & Create Program? We’d love to have you on board! Sign up online today on or call 1300 195 578. 

Waiver and Release Form Share My Ability

Issued August 2021

Please read the following terms carefully. By participating in any class, activity or using any equipment provided by Nepean Area Disabilities Organisation (the Owner) you consent to, and agree to release the Owner from liability according to, these terms. Unless the Owner notifies you otherwise, this waiver and release will apply to all activities undertaken by you at Share My Ability (the premises).

You acknowledge that:

  • are over 18 years of age (if not, a parent/guardian must sign on your behalf)
  • understand that the using equipment provided by, and/or engaging in activities at, the premises is a form of physical activity and that there are inherent risks in undertaking any form of physical exercise
  • have disclosed, or will disclose to the Owner prior to commencing your session, any pre-existing conditions that may place you at a higher risk of injury or inhibit your ability to participate in certain activities or using certain equipment, this includes, but is not limited to:
    • injuries, pain or recent surgery
    • pregnancy or if you have recently given birth
    • respiratory or heart conditions or high blood pressure
    • physical condition or lack of mobility which may prevent safe use of the equipment
  • agree to notify the Owner and its Representatives (staff members) if you experience any pain throughout the session and will immediately stop participating in the session if requested by the Owner or its representatives
  • acknowledge that, based on information you provide, the Owner may decide not to allow you to participate in a session or activity, or use a certain piece of equipment, or may require you to provide a medical certificate affirming that you are able to participate in a session or activity or use a certain piece of equipment before allowing you to join, at the Owner’s sole discretion
  • acknowledge that recommendations or instruction provided by the Owner or Representatives may not be tailored for your particular skill or ability level and it is your responsibility to assess whether you are able or want to participate in all or part of a session or activity
  • acknowledge you are solely responsible for ensuring that your physical environment is suitable for your participation in any session or activity; and
  • agree that sessions may be recorded by the Owner for quality control or promotional purposes. If you do not consent to the Owner using video or still images taken during the session for promotional purposes, please notify the Owner in writing.

 

To the extent permitted at law, you release and hold the Owner (and where applicable its, directors, employees and representatives) harmless from any liability, cost, expense, damages or claims (including claims of negligence) arising from or which may be suffered or incurred in connection with your participation in any sessions or activities provided by the Owner.