Philosophy

Toi Ora is a consumer driven organization which sees itself as fundamentally different from drop in centres and occupational therapy programmes. It is our belief that by offering our services to our communities that the quality of life of individuals can be improved and this in turn adds to the welfare of the community and society as a whole.

The focus is on the arts and culture through creative productivity rather than on mental illness. However, members meet others who have similar stories to theirs and find support in the friendships and social networks they make here.

The emphasis at Toi Ora is on the creative process however, for many artists the opportunity to exhibit and perform is very important. Toi Ora provides opportunities for performance and exhibition of artwork on the premises as well as providing information about exhibition opportunities in the community.

Toi Ora is an important part of the wider community and has ongoing relationships with many other groups and services as well as the general public.

Toi Ora is a charitable trust which is governed by a board. The board consists of at least 50 % of mental health consumers. Other board members represent areas of the wider community such as practicing artists and business people. A majority representation of mental health consumers on the board ensures that members have a service that meets their needs.

Toi Ora fully supports the Human Rights Act 1993, The Health and Disability Commissioner Act 1994 and the 1990 New Zealand Bill of Rights.