Winter
2015
Issue
15
Make a difference
Windermere NEWS READ ALL ABOUT IT! Newsboys grant funds
Knowledge is Power
Mums & Bubs
A place to call home
CEO’s message
Toomah now open! The Toomah Community Centre, a state of the art skills and well-being community centre, recently opened in Pakenham. Jointly funded by the Cardinia Shire Council, Windermere and the Victorian Government, we are thrilled to be delivering support services and programs from Toomah. “The centre aims to help people connect with one another and their community as well as providing a space for children and families to meet, learn and grow. Through your generous support our capacity to be innovative and to place ourselves in the centre of the community continues to grow, Thankyou!” Dr Lynette Buoy.
For further information call 1300 946 337
Hello, it’s great to talk to you again. Firstly I would like to say thank you for your ongoing support and generosity. I hope when you read this newsletter you’ll get a strong sense of the impact you are making in the community. As you will know, at any one time we run a range of 4-6 programs that are specifically created to meet community demand. We call these the Windermere Initiatives. These early intervention programs don’t receive ANY government funding, but we absolutely know they make a difference to many lives. They are funded by people power, that is, people like you. So again, Thank you! Our Suicide Prevention program for instance was created in response to a spate of youth suicides in the area a few years ago. You can read more about your impact with this program on page 3. Mums & Bubs is another shining example of investing in our future and creating a more stable and productive community. Jessica’s ability to overcome adversity and make the most of her time in the program is inspirational. Learn more about her story on page 4-5 . You can also watch Jessica tell her story online. You have already given alot but as the end of the financial year approaches, we wonder if you could once again help do more. Every dollar does count and does make a difference in the lives of many children and families, just like Jessica’s. Thank you for your continued and unwavering support. Dr Lynette Buoy, CEO 2
Photo courtesy: Cardinia Shire Council
Windermere Ambassador
Thank you Richo!
“I’m proud to be an ambassador for such a worthy organisation. Keeping children and families safe is one of the most important responsibilities that we as a society undertake.” Windermere ambassador, football commentator and former AFL Legend, Matthew ‘Richo’ Richardson, recently celebrated his 40th birthday, which is the perfect opportunity for us to say thanks all over again. It’s Richo’s ‘never give up’ attitude that made him one of footy’s all time greats and why we invited him to become a Windermere ambassador. The self confessed ‘footy head’ made his debut for Richmond in 1993 and was an AFL Rising Star nominee in his first season. He played 282 AFL Games, taking more than 1600 marks and kicking some 800 career goals. That’s quite an achievement by anyone’s standards. (see back page)
Every dollar counts,
make your tax deductible donation now!
Donate Now! For more information about
Initiative Updates And then there were 6!
becoming a major supporter of the Windermere Initiatives or to donate now, call (03) 9705 3200 or go to windermere.org.au/donate
Knowledge is power Since graduating from the 8 week Kids on Track Program held during Term 1, Grade 5 students from Rowellan Park and Seaford North Primary School are better equipped to deal with issues already troubling our primary school children. Kids on Track, helps children build a trusting foundation and delves into topics including the realities of drug and alcohol use, cyber bullying, cyber safety and the importance of teamwork. Mental health issues and anger management are also explored. Students are given a variety of skills to overcome anti-social behaviours and deal with troubles already effecting their day to day lives. “I’ve learnt so many things. One of the most important for me was anger management. At home I had problems and was always fighting with my sister. I don’t do this anymore, I can see and understand why I’m angry and can change the way I act” – Grade 5 student from Seaford North Primary School
In March we welcomed our sixth school to Building Harmony which brings students from schools of diverse faiths together to work on acceptance, understanding of others and embrace cultural diversity. For 7 years Sunshine and Crocodiles Pty Ltd has funded this project. “As well as enhancing students’ learning of other cultures, Building Harmony also provides opportunities for students to embrace the many things that make them different, but also to share those things they have in common. As the funder of this program, that couldn’t make me prouder”, said Ms Pam Usher, Sunshine and Crocodiles Pty Ltd.
We found students’ willingness to approach things differently in the future dramatically increased as a result of the KOT program.
55%
Pre
92%
Post
- Source KOT Survery 2014
Each year this program reaches over 150 children. Thank you to our current supporters.
A fresh approach to Suicide Prevention Four years on from the start of our Suicide Prevention program and there is definitely increased community awareness of the importance of open communication and seeking help. However, our job is not yet done. Recently, we have identified children as young as eight coming to school highly anxious and unable to identify or manage their emotions.
daily and assists in developing the skills of mindfulness and balanced thinking. With this training people are better able to navigate life’s challenges, manage emotions, work with their issues and know where to go in times of crisis. Friends for Life targets the 8-11 age group and My Friends - Youth targets the 12-17 year olds.
At Windermere’s very core is our belief that early intervention is paramount, and we know building resilience in our community is a priority. So through your support we partnered with Headspace Casey/Cardinia to deliver resilience training.
We are so pleased to report that, in the first four months of this year, we have already trained over 110 people across these two programs. A further 12 workshops are scheduled over the coming few months, targeting more than 300 adults and students in total.
Resilience for Life is a four week program for anyone aged 18 and over. It recognises the challenges we face
Your generous belief in our work is making a real difference!
May 2015 Suicide Prevention training group
‘I was on the brink of suicide. Resilience for Life helped me address the way I thought about myself. It challenged my unhelpful thoughts and gave me new strategies to encourage a positive way forward. The road to recovery is a long one, but I am well on my way, thanks to Windermere.’ (Jo* 22yrs old - Uni Student) *name changed to protect privacy
Would you or someone you know benefit from this training? Contact Gen Dawson on (03) 5995 4655, email gen.dawson@windermere.org.au or visit windermere.org.au 3
A place to call home Domestic violence, unemployment, poverty, drug addiction, lack of positive role modelling – all of these things and more contribute to young adults finding themselves in vulnerable situations. As we all know, prevention is better than cure. Sadly, our political cycle being what it is, investment for short term gain often outweighs investment for long term change. Mums & Bubs program is a shining example of investing in our future and a more stable and productive community. Jessica’s story illustrates perfectly what we mean.
During a maternal child health assessment, Jessica was identified as being on the brink of homelessness and in desperate need of parenting support. Concerned for their well-being and safety, Jessica was referred to our Mums & Bubs program. Jessica knew she was having problems coping and wasn’t being the parent she wanted to be.
“All I’ve ever wanted was to be a mum. I was trying to raise Harley to be respectful the way I had been taught, but I was scaring him. I very soon learnt there were other ways, probably better ways of parenting.”
Growing up was a long hard struggle for Jessica. Her parents, after many troubled years, finally separated when she was 18. By then Jessica’s relationship with them was at breaking point so she packed her bags and left home. The problem was there was nowhere for her to go.
Through Mums & Bubs Jessica and Harley moved into the Windermere shared house. With a roof over her head, Jessica was able to learn important parenting and life skills and get back on her feet. Independence was the aim.
Over the next 5 years Jessica led a transient lifestyle. Couch-surfing with friends before having to move on, gathering debt along the way. Finally Jessica and her new partner moved in with her married cousin who had just had a baby. For Jessica it seemed that some stability had at last arrived - until she discovered she was pregnant.
After receiving a few home truths about her behaviour, Jessica worked hard on changing for the better. Her relationship with Harley improved dramatically, as did his behaviour. She learnt how to manage money, repaying her debt and saving for her future. She even made steps towards mending her relationship with her mother and sister.
A couple of months before her son, Harley, was born Jessica’s relationship with Harley’s dad broke down. Jessica was again alone, in even more debt and now under pressure to find somewhere for her and her newborn to live.
“The changes in my behaviour have made a huge difference to Harley. It has been amazing to see his growth. It makes me feel like the parent I’ve always wanted to be.”
“I felt so alone, with very little family support other than my cousin I didn’t know where to turn.”
Whilst in the Mums & Bubs house Jessica planned for her future and, supported by Windermere staff, completed an event
To watch Jessica tell her story go to
windermere.org.au
Make your tax deductible donation now 4
(see back page)
planning course which led to a job through the Shire of Cardinia. The icing on the cake was the offer of a two bedroom house through Community Housing which she moved into in February.
“The amazing opportunity I got coming into the Windermere house and the 100% that I put into the program, has given me and my son a roof over our head and a second chance at a normal life.” In all, Jessica and Harley spent just five months in the Mums & Bubs house. In that short time she turned her life around. Jessica was given a real opportunity and she embraced it. She is now working part time, contributing to the community and giving her young son the life he deserves.
“I would have never imagined putting Harley in childcare but he loves it. I never imagined life would be like this, the opportunities I’ve been given are just amazing.” Jessica’s story is not unusual. We see it every day - young mums on the brink of homelessness and the devastation that brings. We know that our Mums & Bubs program works and we want to help more young women just like Jessica have a productive and happy life but we can’t do it alone.
“I was so set in my own ways that I needed that external person to give me those home truths. It was the wake-up call I needed.”
Jessica & her son Harley Photographer: Tristan Evans
Mums & Bubs in a snapshot.
Focus on young mums between the ages of 18-25 yrs old with a child or children under 5 yrs old who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Aim is to provide medium term accommodation whilst equipping the young mums with necessary life skills to get back on their feet.
34 36 2011
2014
2015
4 bedrooms
2 bedrooms
leased at peppercorn rent
bequeathed house
utilities paid for by Windermere
mums children onsite support worker $90k pa cost to run
SOLD The Mums & Bubs house was leased through Places Victoria. Recently the land was sold off as part of a land development. As a result the program has had to downsize and move to a Windermere transitional house.
Mums & Bubs is a Windermere initiative which means it is solely funded by Windermere donors with NO government funding. Help us continue to give young mums, like Jessica, a roof over their heads and the parenting support they so desperately need. Please give generously.
Donate Now
Fill out the form on the back or go to
windermere.org.au/get-involved
utilities paid for by mums
mums children no onsite support worker $30k pa cost to run
Thank You
We want to thank all of those who helped us set up the house and those that continued to support it over many years. Without you this would have never happened.
5
Read all about it!
Newsboys Foundation grant funds to Windermere.
We are thrilled to announce our funding application to the Newsboys Foundation was successful. Since 1983, The Newsboys Foundation (previously Melbourne Newsboys Club) has been working to make a difference in the lives of young people. The grant of $29,600 is for our new program in our Windermere Initiatives. Building Respectful Relationships targets teens13-15years and aims to create and build positive perspectives and behaviours around gender based violence. As is often the case, children’s psychological and long term views are usually the result of peer influence, a climate of acceptability and life experiences. This program challenges attitudes towards violence through an increased knowledge base and development of a culture of respectful relationships. Building Respectful Relationships will start in the third term with Year 8 students at Cranbourne Secondary College.
City of Casey had the highest number of reported family violence incidents (3,752 in 2014) in Victoria 1 in 3 consumers of our Victims Assistance Program (VAP) are victims of violence within a family or relationship context le Make your tax deductib donation now and help erence Windermere make a diff munity! in your local copam ge) (see back
Home sweet home As we were writing this newsletter we received a call from a woman who, after years of enduring domestic violence, is moving interstate for the safety of her children.
A big shout out to Rob M, Rob W, Janette and the team from RB Print. Over the last 5 years the team at RB print have generously donated materials and their time. They always go out of their way to meet our deadlines and ensure everything that we produce (like the se newsletters) is of a high quality. We’re extremely apprecia tive and grateful for their suppo rt.
6
In packing up her home and design business, Anna* donated some fabulous new homeware items to Windermere because she wanted to help others in her situation. “There is light at the end of the tunnel, and I just wanted to show other women, children and families in the same situation as me that someone does care about them” said Anna. Our sincere thanks to Anna for her generous gifts. We truly appreciate that you chose to support Windermere and the work we do in helping people like Anna everyday. *name changed to protect privacy
into the draw to win an
Our deepest thanks to everyone who attended exclus ive our events and donated. We look forward to Sama Willscontinue your support again next year so nth weacan to make a difference inpie the lives of ce of jewellemany. ry
2015 Windermere Classic Proudly Sponsored by Zagame Automative
is back!
2015 Windermere Classic
Thank you Melbourne!
Windermere’s Bounce of the Ball luncheon held on April 1 was a huge success! Over 400 people joined us at Etihad stadium on the eve of the 2015 AFL premiership season including some footy greats such as Ron Barassi, Bobby Skilton, and Windermere Ambassadors ‘Richo’ and David Parkin OAM. Former VFL/AFL umpire and indigenous player mentor Glenn James OAM was guest speaker and shared his story of what it was like to be one of the ‘men in white’.
Our annual Classic Golf Day, at Victoria Golf Club, was also a huge success. The rain and the lightning cleared early to make way for a sensational day of golf, with the team from HFH Group Ross Freer, Neil Hilderbrand and Hawthorn premiership duo - Jack Gunston and Jordan Lewis -proving unbeatable. A big thanks to all of our sponsors for their generosity and continued support, with a special thanks to platinum sponsor Zagame Automotive.
Together these events 00 raised $225,0an d
And an even bigger thanks to those who attended the events. You really do make a difference!
for early intervention prevention programs -
Maralyn Beamish, Den ice Strachan, Dr Lynette Buoy & Samantha Willis
With a glass of bubbly or cup of tea in hand, you can help us make a difference to your local community. Sip in Style is a not to be missed social event; an opportunity to get together with friends and other liked minded women, and enjoy a special day while supporting us. Details coming soon... Register your interest no w! events@windermere.or g.au or phone Maree DeGeorge on (03 ) 9705 3460
the Windermere Initiatives
Glenn James. David Parkin & Matthew Richardson
Run your own fundraising event for Windermere
Neil Hilderbrand, Jordan Lewis, Jack Gunston & Ross Freer Photographer: Gary Lisbon
Why not organise a fundraising event in your neighbourhood or workplace and bring together a group of like minded supporters to raise funds for Windermere. These events can take any shape you like, from selling homebaked goodies at work to trivia nights or golf days.
Have fun whilst raising money to support your community. Windermere can offer you support, so contact us for a further discussion. For more information please contact the Community Partnerships and Marketing team on (03) 9705 3200 or events@windermere.org.au
7
Help spread the Windermere word... We know we ask often and we cannot thank you enough for your support, Thank You! Windermere’s initiatives are nongovernment funded programs, and we rely heavily on your support to help us fund these life changing programs, but more is needed.
Donations to Windermere can be made easily:
Other ways you can help us out. There are many different kinds of contributions you can choose from that best suit your needs and passion for early intervention and prevention.
Online:
www.windermere.org.au/donate
By Phone: Call (03) 9705 3200 By Mail: 4 8 Webb Street,
/WindermereChild&FamilyServices
Do you know anyone who might want to make a difference in the community like you do?
/windermere_aust
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Get in touch with Terry Grigg, Corporate and Community Relationships Manager 0418 357 845 or terry.grigg@windermere.org.au to find out how.
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Become a major supporter of a Windermere Initiative
Visit us at:
48 Webb Street, Narre Warren Victoria
For further information or to discuss any of these options further please contact Maree DeGeorge maree.degeorge@windermere.org.au or phone (03) 9705 3460
Donate
Narre Warren VIC 3805
Join Many Hands
We would like to acknowledge our valued supporters the
Cardinia
Foundation
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