The Good Life Befrienders (GLBF) Programme was born from Rainbow Centre’s School-to-Community project, which addresses challenges of social isolation faced by graduates who often experience a drop in services and support as they transition out of school – commonly referred to as the Post-18 cliff.
The Good Life project was created to address the challenges faced by Rainbow Centre students in transition, particularly those with limited options after graduation.
The idea of befrienders as a social solution came about from the Good Life Journey, a person-centred transition planning process, which aims to foster shared knowledge and vision around post-school goals, and establish realistic and sustainable opportunities for graduating students with disabilities.
The Good Life journey was developed from the School-to-Community project, which was funded by the Tote Board Enabling Lives Initiative.
The four undergirding beliefs that guide the design process for the Good Life journey are:
01 | Everyone wants a good life |
02 | Every youth has a voice |
03 | Every youth has the right to meaningful participation |
04 | Every youth has the right to choices |
Create support networks by seeking friends for youths with disabilities and their families.
Model, partner and train befrienders in inclusive practices, to build more inclusive communities.
Influence more positive attitudes towards persons with disabilities.