Pou Whakaaro

About

'Partnering with people living life well''

Story

The organisation was established in 1982 with support from service clubs. Initially it was established as a sheltered workshop for people with a disability or experience of mental illness and was intended to support people to find employment. Activities included making farm gates, growing food and running a lunch bar, but these operations ceased after a financial crisis in 2002/3. The board and a new manager worked hard to save EBAT from closing down and since then Pou Whakaaro has changed it's focus to become one of inclusion and has doubled in size to include a Kawerau based service.
We support people who access our services to be valued members of our communities, focusing on their strengths and talents. We connect people to their choice of community activities and support people to plan for a better future.

Mission

Pou Whakaaro is a pillar of strength providing choices and opportunities to all people.