“No matter where you’re at in life, how old you are, or what you’re needing help with, I can guarantee we have a class, program or service you’ll enjoy,” says SECC Communications Manager Alison Leader.
Programs are run during school terms and include: child care, advocacy and advice, casework and counselling, classes and support groups, family support, fruit and vegetable deliveries, multicultural support, social support, respite care, and transport.
All programs depend on the expertise and generosity of volunteers.
Volunteering offers vital help to people in need and also benefits volunteers. Volunteering and helping others can reduce stress, combat depression, offer mental stimulation, and provide a sense of purpose.
Last November the centre threw a party at Eastlakes Reserve to celebrate the 40-years milestone and to thank everyone for help over the years. “Many of the people we support also support us through volunteering,” Ms Leader continues. “Services like ours rely on the passionate contributions of our volunteers, whether they give four hours a week, or one hour here or there.”
Currently, the centre is in need of people to give an hour or two per week at playgroups which are run in Eastlakes, Kensington, Maroubra and Green Square. SECC is just about to open a new Wellness Hub in Mascot (Coronation Hall at the corner of Coward Street and Botany Road) which will enable it to expand its services across all age groups.
SECC also runs a lunch and bingo group every Tuesday at Beaconsfield (169 Victoria Street). This group benefits from a monthly exercise program run by SHARE and funded by the City of Sydney. Cost is $15 for transport and the meal.
SECC is keen to connect volunteer companions to take elderly people to their medical appointments and/or pay house visits to provide company and support for an hour or two. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer driver is also encouraged to get in contact as the centre has a fleet of vehicles which are used for helping seniors and other members of the community get out and about.
There are various volunteer positions vacant. SECC invites online applications for fruit and vegetable packers, a children’s activities assistant, a social activities assistant (Dementia Day Centre), a Toy Library assistant, a “toy doctor”, social group facilitator, and an English teacher.
