Host Buddy Program

Interchange Host Buddy Program

The Buddy program is our longest running volunteer program. It’s part of Gateways’ history. We match a volunteer with a young person who has a disability, providing an opportunity to build a lasting relationship, new experiences and a break from home.

Our volunteers are carefully screened and then matched, depending on locality, interests, lifestyle and support needs. Families build a relationship with the volunteer, and develop regular arrangements that suit the family, child and volunteer.

How the program works

Volunteers are carefully screened by Gateways. They require an NDIS Worker Screening Clearance, a Working with Children Check, clear reference checks and a home safety check. Volunteers receive training and ongoing support from the Gateways Volunteer Coordinators. They commit to providing care for your child on a regular basis, such as a few hours a week, a day each fortnight or one weekend a month.

The Program provides opportunities for new friendships and positive experiences for young people, as well as providing families with a chance to spend quality time with other family members or just have a break.

As a family, you are included in the matching process from the start, and the match can develop at a pace that suits your child. We aim to match based on a mutual sharing of interests and values.

• The Host Buddy Program is open to all families who have a child with a disability
• We welcome enquiries from those who have been unable to access the NDIS
• Families do not have to be receiving other services with Gateways Support Services to be involved
• There is no cost for families to access the Host Buddy Program

This program is supported by funding from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments under the HACC program.

Express your interest in the Host Buddy Program below or call our Volunteer Coordinators on 03 5221 2984