Roma House residents take on Adventure Based Learning

Roma House is widely considered to be a unique and therapeutic community service that endeavours to provide a range of intervention options to its residents.

The new “Wild Earth Adventure” project was implemented as an additional intervention / program option at Roma House and runs complementary to residents’ ongoing case work plans.

Roma House has conducted eight adventure programs over six months ranging from co-ed day trips (e.g. rope challenge courses) to multi-day journey based programs (e.g. canoe/camping adventures along the Noosa River).

The programs are designed to challenge residents’ physical, emotional, and mental capabilities, and comfort zones that can be processed during individual and group debriefing.

Amanda Smith, Roma House’s adventure based program worker, holds great stock in the potential that adventure therapy can offer participants.

Amanda’s unassuming approach recognises that people with transient lifestyles may have had few opportunities to experience the ‘wilderness’ and the activities it offers. She believes access to which is a human right, and is consistently amazed by participants’ capability and determination.

The programs are drug and alcohol free and physically and mentally strenuous. Accommodation isn’t luxurious and the itineraries are hectic.  They are completely voluntary and participation is determined in consultation with a case worker and resident nurse to ensure safety for all residents.

"Getting the Wild Earth Adventure Project off the ground has definitely been challenging, yet the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

"We have had fantastic feedback from the residents, and over 40% of participants have come on more than one adventure" Amanda said.

Amanda is now consulting with residents and staff to create the most dynamic, adventurous, and unforgettable eight-month calendar to support participants continuation of their self-identified journeys.  One idea that has ignited interest from residents is a four day sea kayaking / camping trip to Fraser Island during whale watching season.

If you are interested in donating any gear (eg: boots, camp clothing etc) or making financial contributions to the program please email Amanda at: SmithAma@missionaustralia.com.au or phone: 07 3839 1826

To read the full story visit this link:  www.qshelter.asn.au/journals/the-quarterly-march-2010.

This is an excerpt from page 8 of the March edition of The Quarterly - the publication of Queensland Shelter.