FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AFL Workshop Builds Harmony Windermere’s Building Harmony project, together with Parklea and the Richmond Football Club, hosted an AFL Workshop at Cardinia LIFE in Pakenham, yesterday. Over 150 students from the five participating schools - Berwick Grammar School, Maranatha Christian School, Minaret College, Officer Primary School and St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, took part in a variety of skills stations, designed to promote interaction and cultural harmony. Richmond superstar Aaron Edwards took the young recruits through their paces, speaking to them about life as an AFL footballer and the importance of cultural awareness and multicultural acceptance in the community. “As a football club, we embrace cultural diversity, Richmond has the most multicultural players of any team in the AFL, which is something we celebrate”, Aaron said. “Richmond has done a number of activities in the Cardinia region, with support from Parklea and Cardinia Shire Council, it’s great to continue to visit this area to keep in touch with our supporters here.” Windermere were given the opportunity to have Richmond Football club run the workshop through their long time association with Parklea. “As a long term supporter of Windermere we are pleased these relationships can integrate to help so many people in the community”, said Parklea CEO, Andrew Facey. “As the major land developer within the municipality, Parklea, believes it is extremely important to support the wider Cardinia community. We believe that the partnership between Parklea and the Richmond Football Club is one that will certainly assist in reaching this goal.” Windermere’s Building Harmony Project, funded by Sunshine and Crocodiles Pty Ltd, works with young people to build skills, respect and empathy. The schools based early prevention project commenced in 2009, and aims to promote and support harmonious living in our diverse emerging community of Officer. Sunshine and Crocodiles Pty Ltd Managing Director, Pam Usher, said “It’s fantastic to see students from different schools and backgrounds come together and interact.” “This program gives children the opportunity to grow up in an accepting atmosphere”. Windermere CEO, Dr Lynette Buoy praised the support of the various stakeholders in coming together and embracing the work of the Building Harmony project. “Teaching our children respect for cultural diversity assists us all in building stronger, connected and more supported communities,” she said. For more information about the project contact Windermere Child and Family Services on 9705 3200 or email info@windermere.org.au
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About Windermere For over 150 years Windermere has been providing help and resources to people so they can live life to their full potential. Our ultimate goal is to help create strong, connected communities where our services are no longer needed. Today we are proud to be one of the largest independent community service organisations operating solely in Victoria’s South-East. We support individuals who have experienced or are dealing with issues such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, violence in the family, lack of housing, have been the victim of a violent crime, are living with a disability, who care for a child with a developmental delay or who just need help to fit in or feel part of their community. We provide emotional and practical support counselling, advice, education, advocacy, therapeutic interventions and reasons to come together. We also provide quality in home and centre-based childcare and work together with a number of schools to help children remain healthy and engaged. While we offer a suite of interventions, our key focus in on prevention and early intervention, and innovative practice. If you wish to know more information please contact Windermere Child and Family Services on (03) 9705 3200 or email info@windermere.org.au
For interviews or further media information contact: Maree De George Windermere Child and Family Services Phone: 0414 609 006 maree.degeorge@windermere.org.au www.windermere.org.au
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