The Association began as a sheltered workshop in 1974 through the efforts of the Hay, Johnson and Rymill Families. In 1976 the association was incorporated and registered as a charitable body. 1983 saw the South Australian Health Commission assume responsibility for part of the association's funding and in the following year funded renovations to the centre. The association has had several name changes and several changes in direction since its inception. Today Encounter Centre Incorporated is a community based charity reliant on our dedicated volunteers who provide help to run a variety of activities , in particular programs for those with special needs