Winter
2016
Issue
17
Make a difference
Windermere NEWS
Why Penny will never be
homeless again
Chipping for Charity
2016 Ta x A pp eal
CEO’s message
We share a dream and sing with one voice On Australian Harmony Day, the 21 March, school students from the Cardinia area representing many faiths including Catholic, Christian, Islamic, together with special needs, government, and non-denominational independent schools under our Building Harmony Project were all brought together to foster healthy relationships and help build united communities through activities, play and talking.
These days whenever I ask someone ‘how are you?’ they inevitably reply ‘busy’. Besides being busy, ‘How are you really? Are you and your family happy? Are you managing the challenges life brings? Are you living the life you once dreamt about, making decisions you can be proud of?‘ With thanks to you - our valued and committed donors and supporters - we work every day to help others to achieve a happier life, because we truly believe everyone is someone who matters in our community. In this latest edition of our Community News, you’ll hear from Penny about ‘graduating’ from the Mums and Bubs program (page 3), on this page read about local children from diverse backgrounds celebrating Harmony Day and learn about Year 8 students being educated to build positive social relationships which challenge attitudes towards family violence (page 3). These are just some of the ways your support is making a difference.
“I learnt that there are so many different people out there. Grade 6 Student, Harmony Day participant
With everyone wearing the orange Harmony Day ribbon students took part in teamwork challenges, as well as having the opportunity to mingle, kick balls and play four square. Rachel Clarke, Windermere’s Building Harmony Project Officer said, “The beauty of this program, which engages students in a range of activities, is its simplicity. By coming together, they drop any preconceived ideas they may have held and realise just how much they have in common.”
Of course, making a difference is at the heart of what Windermere does, especially in the area of family violence. This year’s tax appeal (on page 4&5) features Adele’s Story and I would strongly encourage you to read about her courage, resilience and determination to ensure her family could live free of fear and violence. With your ongoing support we can inspire someone to live a better life. Your tax deductible donation will always make a difference. On behalf of everyone who works at Windermere and from those who receive our support, Thank You With best wishes Dr Lynette Buoy 2
Minaret, “I learnt about the Muslim faith from about they were really interesting to talk to, that.” like how they believe in God and things nt Grade 5 Student, Harmony Day participa
This project is generously funded through the Sunshine and Crocodiles for which we are truly grateful.
How your support is helping Penny will never have to worry about homelessness again At Windermere we have a soft spot for the Mums and Bubs program which provides housing for vulnerable young women and their children while also assisting them to develop essential life and work-ready skills. We recently caught up with Penny*, one of our past participants, who has ‘graduated’ to a long term, stable home with her son and secured a part-time job. Struggling with mental health problems as well as being hospitalised Penny was unable to accept housing when first offered. At the same time, she was also advised that her beautiful baby, Liam*, had been diagnosed with developmental delays requiring specialised services and support. So it was no surprise that when Penny first moved into the Mums and Bubs home with baby Liam, she was unwell, frightened and facing a potentially overwhelming crisis. By providing a safe place to live, Windermere was able to provide both Penny and Liam with the support they so desperately needed.
“Living in the house gave me the support of the worker at the house and the chance to meet other mums in a similar situation to myself. My son and I made some very good friends and had a chance to socialise with other kids. We had heaps of fun doing the house program and both learnt lots of great new skills to help us when we move out”
now “They helped me to get my own house, I will never have to worry about being homeless again” Penny Today, Penny and Liam live close to family members in long term accommodation, Liam has started school and their general health has improved significantly. Together, they’ve once again become part of their community. *name has been changed due to privacy
Learning the art of respect Windermere recently ran Building Respectful Relationships program at Cranbourne Secondary College and received some wonderful feedback from Mr Martin Cash, Assistant Principal. “Your program has been one of the most powerful positive influences on our students that I have witnessed in my 18 years at the College. There has been a noticeable change in attitude for many. They are displaying greater tolerance towards one another particularly to those who stand out as being “different”. There has also been a definite improvement in the level of courtesy and respect shown to each other and teachers. Students are less prone to reacting violently and often refer back to the program. They’re also more resilient and willing to challenge others who exhibit harmful behaviours.”
Developing a culture of respectful relationships.
We thank the Newsboys Foundation for their support in 2015/16.
For more information about how you can support these programs or to make a tax deductible donation
Please call 1300 946 337
or use the coupon on the back page.
Inspire someone to live a better life every 1
2 & /2 10 times A DAY hours
Did you know an act of family violence is committed every two and half hours
in the South-Eastern suburbs,
every day of every week?
Recently a very courageous and inspirational woman decided to face her fears and leave a violent partner. A woman, who with Windermere’s support, was able to realise a better life for her and her children.
This is Adele’s story. Adele* came to Windermere when she was eight months pregnant together with her three other children and her mother. She was in a state of deep distress. Although separated from her partner, Corey*, due to ongoing violence as well as taking out an intervention order, he still managed to track the family down, break into their house and threatened to kill them repeatedly.
1
/
3
And at least one third of these incidences will be witnessed by children.
Tamara*, the eldest child, soon began experiencing panic attacks at school and shared with a School Counsellor what was happening at home. Somehow her father found out and threatened to kill her if she ever went to school again. Each day for the next two weeks Corey would lie in wait outside the school grounds, to see if Tamara went against his wishes. Adele had tried to leave a number of times, but felt it may be too dangerous for her kids, until it became too dangerous to stay. Terrified that the threat of death was real and imminent Adele gathered her children and mother and left home with nothing and turned to Windermere for help.
Within a few hours Windermere was able to ensure Adele received medical attention for her and her unborn baby plus safe, secure, untraceable accommodation. Food, clothing and petrol vouchers were also provided so Adele could attend to the immediate needs of her family. A week later a safe refuge was found and 3G safety cards, a silent, round the clock monitoring pendant (or wristband) was issued to Adele, her eldest daughter and mother. The wearable devices are monitored around the clock and when activated pinpoint the exact location of the person in distress so police can immediately respond. The device also records any threatening conversations that occur which can then be used in court. For the first time, in a very long time, Adele and her family are safe.
How your tax-deductible donation can help
$50 can:
$100 can:
Provide a shopping voucher so that a family can buy enough food for at least two meals
Enable a family to be placed into emergency accommodation overnight
Purchase a bag of nappies and formula
Buy a set of basic clothes OR shoes
Provide a support worker to assist families who have recently left a violent relationship Provide transport to a safe house and essential overnight personal items
$200 can: Allow long term counselling, family therapy and support for children Help run ‘Healthy Women, Healthy Relationships’ for women who have experienced family violence in their relationships Ensure all Year 8 students participate in the Building Respectful Relationships program designed to protect future generations from experiencing family violence
Behind each and every statistic and each of the 12,000 cases that Windermere assist every year is a real person and a real family, just like Adele. With your support and commitment we can inspire others to believe that everyone is someone who matters in our community.
How to Donate 1
Fill in the coupon on the back page and return to: Windermere Reply Paid 84615 Narre Warren Vic. 3805
2
Online at www.windermere.org.au/donate
3
Call the Fundraising Team on 9704 3460
If you know someone who may be facing or dealing with family violence please call us on 1300 946 337
5
e r e m r e Partnering with Wind While Windermere receives some State and Federal funding for our services, we rely on our sponsors and supporters to provide additional support that allows us to respond quickly to those in crisis. So a huge, heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our private donors, sole traders, small businesses, families, friends and individuals who all contribute so much. We are acutely aware that we could not do what we do on our own. Please accept our warmest thanks for all that you do. Here are just a few reasons why our corporate sponsors choose to support Windermere.
proud “As a family run business, Zagame Automotive are n visio their to be supporting Windermere in 2016 and to help make a difference, to build relationships and connect people within the community. ic Our continuous support of the Windermere Golf Class to us over the last six years has been an opportunity for the to cially espe ity mun com give something back to the .” most the it need children, families and individuals that Bobby Zagame, CEO, Zagame Automotive
“As a family owned business, it was important for us at Zagame’s to work with a partner that shared our values as well as supportin g families within the community. Very quickly, we rea lised that Windermere was that organisation. Since beginning our associati on we have witnessed the true impact Windermere is ha ving in the community. Helping those who are dealing with assault, trauma and crisis to bring their lives back on track. As a business partner their exp ertise is also a great asset. Assisting with training for sta ff, Windermere has also supported an employee living in a volatile relationship. Everyone at Zagame’s is very proud to be a supporter of Windermere. We strongly believ e that together, we can make a difference.” Jackie Booth, COO, Zagame’s
Private Banking Services Centre F R A N C H I S E
O F
B E N D I G O
B A N K
“At Bendigo Private Banking Services we understand that our role is much more than just banking. Each of our customers is an individual and an integral part of their community and it’s important that we understand this and respond accordingly. Windermere shares these same values and that’s why we’re delighted to support the vital work they undertake.” Nick Carah, Chief Executive Officer
Thank you to the staff at Cardinia Shire, a long standing community partner of ours, who donated beautiful goods for our Mothers’ Day Hampers. These hampers were presented to Windermere for three special mums who needed a lift while facing a challenging time. The recipients were deeply touched by the thoughtfulness and kindness of others in the community.
Event Wrap Up And the ball bounced in our favour again! Traditionally held on the day before the first bounce of the first ball of the AFL Premiership season, this year’s Bounce of the Ball fundraising luncheon was held in the Members’ Dining Room at the MCG – the home of football.
Alastair Clarkson, guest speaker at Bounce of
the Ball 2016 Photo: SDP Media
Overlooking the hallowed turf nearly 400 guests joined us to raise vital funds for Windermere. Guest speaker, Alastair Clarkson, ‘Super Coach’ of Hawthorn Football Club spoke about the importance of seeing each player as an individual person, with highs and lows, challenges and celebrations which all contribute to how an entire game of footy is played. Guests also had the opportunity to have their photo taken with this year’s Premiership Cup as well as footy tipping for the whole season. Thank you to all who attended, including our major sponsor, Zagame’s and event supporter Bendigo Private Banking Services, who helped us raise more than $120,000. Funds raised mean we can help 60 more people like Joelle and Henri, who also spoke at the event about losing their daughter Sophie, attend the lifesaving ASIST suicide awareness program. Windermere Classic 2016 Ladies Team Photographer: Gary Lisbon
Windermere
CLASSIC Group Shot at Windermere Classic 2016 Photographer: Gary Lisbon
Joelle and Henri with the AFL Premiership Cup Photo: SDP Media
Chipping for Charity Windermere Classic 2016 Early on a clear Wednesday morning in April, more than 70 golfers teed off at the Victoria Golf Club in support of Windermere. Peppered with luxury cars courtesy of platinum sponsor Zagame Automotive, the course never looked better. And while the wind played havoc with even the greatest of player’s games on the 16th hole, everyone still managed to complete their round successfully before heading back to the Club House for a delicious lunch and exciting auction. Taking the perpetual trophy back from last year’s winners (the HFH Group) congratulations to Tarmac Civil Constructions who took the glory as this year’s winners. Congratulations to Errol Cockburn, Tony Dea, Ross Pitama and Glen Wilson. The true winner on the day was of course, the 12,000 people Windermere assists every year. With over $40,000 raised on the day from a raffle, auction and on-course activities, as well as the generosity of our silver, gold and platinum sponsors, these vital funds will be used for community strengthening programs. For their ongoing support we would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank Zagame Automotive for their Platinum Sponsorship of this year’s Windermere Classic. This event would not be possible without their 7 participation.
Congratulations Carl As Chief Executive of Windermere I am delighted to announce that Mr Carl Strachan, previous Chairman and Board Member of Windermere for the last 24 years has received an Order of Australia award in this year’s Queen’s Birthday 2016 Honours List in recognition of his distinguished services to the community.
We’re delighted to announce the Afternoon of Wellness will be held again in September This year’s event continues the theme of women’s health and wellbeing and how to take the first step towards living the life you dream about. Our guest speaker will inspire you with her personal story and what it took for her to take that first step towards overcoming both professional and personal hurdles and set-backs.
Carl has been an inspiration to everyone he meets, both professionally and personally and has always gone above and beyond to support, guide and promote Windermere’s interests and its role in the community. Fellow Board Members and the Windermere community have also invited Carl to become Windermere’s Patron which he has graciously accepted as he now formally ceases his role as a board member.
You’ll also enjoy a sumptuous high tea, have the opportunity to win a luxury weekend away at the McCrae Lighthouse Retreat as well as catching up with your friends.
It has been a tremendous partnership valued by all and we look forward to our continued journey together.
Additional details and how to book will soon be available at windermere.org.au. Stay tuned!
Dr Lynette Buoy, CEO of Windermere
We would like to acknowledge our valued supporters
Yes, I want to help people like Adele! SINGLE DONATION I wish to make a single donation of:
$50
$100
$200
OR
Other $
MONTHLY DONOR Please accept my monthly gift of:
$20
$50
$75
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PAYMENT DETAILS All donations $2 and over are tax deductible My cheque/money order is enclosed and made payable to Windermere Child and Family Services OR Please debit this card:
Mastercard
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Card Number
PLEASE SEND ME MORE INFORMATION ON:
Including Windermere in my Will Becoming a monthly donor
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Return to: Windermere Reply Paid 84615 Narre Warren Vic. 3805
Donate online at windermere.org.au Phone 1300 946 337