437 North Road, Ormond
Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm
Day Programs
More Support
Every participant's journey is unique. These are real outcomes, drawn from documented records including Behaviour Support Plans, progress notes, allied health recommendations and participant feedback. Names are used with permission, some details are de-identified to protect privacy.
YAY Today uses a continuous improvement approach to evaluate participant outcomes and ensure supports remain responsive to changing needs.
When David joined YAY Today, his goal was to build confidence, gain workplace experience and secure meaningful employment. Through personalised employment supports and practical skill development, he developed the confidence and experience needed to achieve his goals.
Today, David is employed by YAY Today as our Brand Ambassador and Office Assistant, where he welcomes visitors, supports administration and represents the organisation at community events. He has also secured part-time employment with another employer.
"David's story reminds us that disability should never define someone's potential."
Before joining YAY Today's respite program, this participant spent much of his time alone at home with limited opportunities to explore the community. Through regular support and encouragement, he has built the confidence to participate in community outings, visit new places and navigate different environments using his wheelchair.
Some of Their favourite experiences include visiting Kryal Castle, Phillip Island and discovering places he never thought possible.
"If it wasn't for YAY Today, I'd be stuck in my bedroom."
"I realised there are many more places to explore, and the world is a very big place."
A chat with Pandeli about building skills, confidence and community at YAY Today.
What are you proud of achieving recently?
"I'm proud that I can now make a coffee from start to finish, including the latte art. I've learnt a lot through the Barista Program, and it's given me more confidence. I'm also really happy that I've made new friends at YAY Today."
Anything to share with the YAY Today community?
"I'm really lucky to have found a place where I can build new skills, have fun, make friends and keep learning. It's a place where I feel supported and enjoy coming every week."
Our Barista Program is designed to prepare participants for real workplaces. Participants develop practical skills in customer service, coffee making, communication and workplace expectations while building confidence in a supportive environment.
For participants such as Jayden, Sara and R.S., the program became a pathway to paid employment. After completing practical training and employment supports, each secured work in cafés, hospitality and other industries. For many, this was their first experience in paid employment.
These outcomes improve participants' quality of life and reduce reliance on high-cost emergency services, enabling people to remain safely engaged in their homes and communities.
Through consistent, person-centred supports, proactive behaviour support strategies and close collaboration with her multidisciplinary team, Jessie has developed improved emotional regulation and greater confidence in managing everyday situations. Early intervention has reduced the likelihood of behaviours escalating to crisis point.
Sally's journey has been shaped by complex emotional challenges that, at times, made it difficult to feel settled and participate consistently in everyday activities. Through flexible, individualised supports and strong collaboration with her family and allied health team, Sally has experienced greater stability in her daily life.
Many participants tell us they came to YAY Today feeling lonely or socially isolated. Through cooking classes, art, wellness sessions, barista training, holiday programs and community activities, participants have developed friendships, confidence and a sense of belonging.
One participant shared that before joining YAY Today they spent most days alone in their bedroom. Today, they look forward to attending classes, seeing friends and trying new experiences each week.
Our goal has never been simply to provide disability services. It is to create opportunities, build confidence, and celebrate every achievement, no matter how small.
Some of the best things about this job happen between two people who genuinely get on. We asked a few of them to tell us about it.
They have been working together a few months now, and whether it is in the kitchen or out and about, their time together is usually full of laughter. We asked them both a few questions.
Nikita is a lovely girl who fills the room with her energy and smile.
We have had so many special moments that it is hard to choose, but my favourite times are when we cook together and then dance.
I feel good when I am with Maria.
The happiest times are when we cook together.
A milkshake!
Shared with permission. If you would like to tell us about your own experience, we would love to hear it, just get in touch.
