Wonderland was created out of a need for a youth-specific service for young people with disabilities.
Rob and Toni Mehigan
Trained high school teacher Rob and psychologist Toni have a passion to help young people find the joy of living. Adolescents have unique developmental needs which include making friends, discovering their skills and unique interests, having adventures as well as meeting the developmental challenges of changing from childhood to adulthood. All of us young people included need to grow in our lives and learn new skills but above all we all need to feel loved and accepted. As well in an increasingly technological age – helping young people find the balance with experiences in the natural environment is critical. Too much screen time is detrimental to eyesight, body health, and mental health.
The goal of our service has been to build capacity for young people while providing a short-term supported accommodation service. Over time the service has grown from respite into a range of other services including in-home care, community access visits, day programs and longer-term accommodation support.
The uptake at Wonderland has been amazing. So many kids and so many families are now part of our family since we opened the doors in Jan 18.
Toni Mehigan
What People Say
‘We love working at Wonderland. It’s a happy place and we get to have a lot of fun every day. We love the team spirit here’.
Staff
‘Since my son has been coming to Wonderland, he has been a lot happier and more confident and now he has a group of friends’.
Mother
‘I love coming to Wonderland – the carers are great, the food is good, my friends are great and I love all the activities’.
Participant
‘Attending retreats has given my son opportunities to practice independent living skills in a fun and well-equipped environment’
Parent
‘Attending retreats has provided my son with the opportunity to converse with a diverse group of people giving him many opportunities to enhance his communication.’.
Mother
‘Attending the retreat has pushed my child outside their comfort zone in many different areas. Their confidence is growing as a result.’.
Father
‘At Wonderland, my daughter expresses herself better’.
Parent
‘Would love more time at Wonderland Retreat – he asked if he could stay an extra night which confirms how much he likes it. He has come on leaps and bounds.’.
Nan
‘The staff at Wonderland are lovely and really know how to connect with the participants. My child loves going to the retreats.’.
Parent
‘No issues at Wonderland Retreat – it is a fantastic service’.
Parent
‘I can’t remember when I have felt so happy – in my whole life I haven’t felt so happy’.
Participant
‘This is the best place I have every worked’.
Staff Member