Dunedin Group Launches 2026 with Events to Foster Connections

Members of a Dunedin-based organization dedicated to strengthening relationships for people with disabilities convened for their inaugural event of 2026. This marks the start of an ambitious year for the group, which is now entering its eighth year of operation. Chief Executive Josh Perry expressed enthusiasm for the busy schedule ahead, highlighting a range of activities designed to foster community connections.

The group hosts a weekly coffee club, which serves as a regular gathering point for approximately 45 members in Dunedin. This meeting takes place every Thursday from 13:00 to 14:00 at the Plaza Café located within the Unipol recreation centre near Forsyth Barr Stadium. Additionally, a monthly social evening occurs at 19:00 on the first Friday of each month at various venues, providing further opportunities for members to engage socially.

In addition to these regular outings, the organization plans to launch specific educational programs aimed at personal development in June or July. A series of six-week courses will focus on enhancing social connections by teaching essential friendship and relationship skills. Topics covered will include communication, emotions, participation, and how to meet new people.

Chairwoman Barbara Fogarty emphasized the group’s mission to operate as an entity run by people with disabilities for people with disabilities. The organization has made significant strides in connecting individuals across various regions, including Invercargill, Taupō, and Palmerston North, in addition to its core membership in Dunedin. The primary goal remains to encourage community bonding and increase visibility within the broader public sphere.

“Just normalizing disability, that it is part of our community,” Mrs. Fogarty stated. The upcoming courses are specifically designed to assist members in developing both platonic and romantic relationships. “Many people desire boyfriends or girlfriends or a special relationship. You have to be able to chat and communicate, so we start with communication skills,” she added.

Mr. Perry expressed gratitude to key supporters, including the Otago Community Trust, the Department of Internal Affairs, Dunedin City Council, and the law firm Chapman Tripp, for their contributions to the charity’s efforts. For more information or to join, interested individuals can visit enablinglove.nz.