Cardinia Shire’s major aquatic and recreation facilities operators, Aligned Leisure, have donated over $28,000 worth of fitness, health and well being programs to local residents enabling them to access swimming lessons, aquatic memberships and health and wellness memberships.
Aligned Leisure’s Supported Access Program provides access to programs and services for local people experiencing financial stress and hardship.
The Supported Access Program provides local people experiencing disadvantage with the opportunity to participate in Aligned Leisure’s fitness, health and well being programs. As well as the health benefits of being physically active, there are also emotional and social benefits for participants, including reducing isolation, increasing confidence and helping to develop a greater independence.
Cardinia Leisure Manager Simon Bryson stated, “Over the next 3 years, Aligned Leisure will provide $60,000 worth of access to programs and services at our leisure facilities to Cardinia residents experiencing disadvantage. We believe strongly in building a healthier more active community and through the Supported Access Program, we want to provide greater access to the health and wellbeing benefits our programs provide.”
Carly Mitchell’s family is one that has been assisted by the Supported Access Program. Carly is a single mother of Sienna, Kade and Brodie, all of whom are enrolled in the Learn to Swim program. When asked about the program the kids replied, “We love it because it is fun!” Not only has the program enhanced the children’s swimming ability, but it has given them a greater quality of life through social engagement and personal confidence.
