Chill Out Saturdays program for people with disability gets funding boost from Rio Tinto to run through April

A social program for people with disability has been able to run this month with support from Rio Tinto, but organisers are on the lookout for new funding to keep the fun rolling.

Albany’s Community Living Association launched Chill Out Saturdays in October, offering a safe, welcoming and accessible space for young people with disability over 18 to have fun and meet new people.

Rio Tinto helped keep the program running throughout March and April with a $5000 grant.

Rio Tinto’s Elyse Borlini said the company was proud to support the program which was improving the wellbeing of Albany locals.

“Chill Out Weekends is a fantastic initiative by Community Living Association Albany that promotes inclusive, meaningful activities for people with disabilities,” she said.

CLA chief executive Russell Nelson said attendees of all ages had formed a close-knit friendship group through the social evenings.

“The Rio funding has enabled us to extend the program through March and April, however, it unfortunately ends on Saturday, April 16,” he said.

“We are continuing to look for funding opportunities to keep the program going, as it provides unique social opportunities for some of the most vulnerable and isolated people in our community.”

Chill Out Saturdays will run until April 16, from 6-9pm at the CLA Centre for Excellence, pre-booking is essential and COVID vaccination required. Expressions of interest forms can be accessed at mycla.org.au or contact 9842 3855.