About US

Empowering Individuals

We are dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disability and supporting their families through transformative programmes.

We celebrate each person's uniqueness and work to ensure they have opportunities to build friendships, secure employment, and actively participate in their community.

Two young people smiling at a social event, one holding a large tan handbag and the other holding a plate, surrounded by other people in the background.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to foster belonging, self-discovery and skill development, within an inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

WHAT WE DO

We offer a range of adapted programmes that build routine and consistency while encouraging individuals to grow beyond their comfort zones, fostering independence and a better quality of life.

A young person preparing to shoot a basketball into a hoop in an indoor gym, with another person watching nearby.

Weekly Activities

Gym sessions, dance, music, sports, and creative programmes to enhance social and physical skills.

A woman with curly hair, in a beige cap and sunglasses, smiling with her arm around a young man wearing glasses, a red and gray cap, a blue hoodie, and holding a water bottle.

Holiday Programmes

Full- and half-day programs, providing fun, structure and engagement during school breaks.

Girl in riding helmet and glasses smiling on horseback outdoor on a trail.

Workforce Development

Helping individuals develop the skills and confidence needed to enter and succeed in the workforce.

A woman in a white shirt and a man at a festive, decorated indoor party.

Social Events

Organising community events such as the Mint Ball, to build social connections and encourage community engagement.

Two individuals on a stage, one woman raising her hand and a man.

Community Access

Facilitating participation in local activities and events, promoting inclusion, and reducing barriers.

A group of four people, two adults and two children, are standing at a counter inside a building, talking with a woman who is seated on the other side. The adults and children are smiling, and the scene appears to be casual and friendly.

Family Support

Valuable resources and information to families, enabling them to better support their loved ones.

Two women smiling at a booth with plants, under a tent at an outdoor event. One woman wears sunglasses, a red hat, and a black jacket, while the other wears a beige sweater with plant illustrations. There are baskets and small containers on the table.

Community Collaboration

Working hand-in-hand with local organisations to foster sustainable relationships and a stronger community.

A young male in a camouflage hat and life jacket sitting in a yellow kayak on a lake, with a woman smiling in the water beside him, wearing a yellow life jacket.

Overnight Trips/Camps

Multi-day trips such as Special Olympics, weekend getaways and Mint Camp.

Our Story

The Journey So Far

Our Charitable Trust was founded in 2017 by local families in the Upper Clutha region with the aim of supporting individuals with intellectual disability. Becoming a registered charity in 2019, it is guided by a dedicated board of trustees, including four parents, alongside two independent members. Our organisation includes three part-time staff and over 50 volunteers from the local community.

MINT was established to fill a gap in local services and provide vital support for individuals with intellectual disability and their families. In our rural community, accessible programs were limited, so we create opportunities that foster inclusion, participation, and meaningful connection for everyone, regardless of the challenges they face.

Together We Can Make a BIG Difference

We are a grassroots organisation that exists solely on grants and donations- which is why we need you!