LOCAL LIFE
MAKE A DIFFERENCE : Community Groups
by Lorna Gordon
Community groups are the unsung heroes in our local area . They provide so many services to support the youngest in our communities with mother ’ s groups and play groups to keeping our seniors active and engaged with fitness classes , gardening and days out . There really is something for everyone , regardless of what you are looking to do .
Many community groups provide more than a way to connect to your neighbours , they can offer help with navigating Centrelink or other social services , they may have a foodbank to help when money is tight , offer support for people affected by domestic violence or for people who have addictions .
Community gardens are gaining in popularity , and you can find them all over our area . There is one at Lalor Park on Freeman Street , Blacktown council have two , one at Blacktown Showground Community Garden and the other at Bungarribee Community Garden . There may be smaller ones situated near you in community centres or parks , so ask around if you are interested in attending them .
Men ’ s Sheds are a great way to connect to people who share similar interests and you can learn how to use power tools to make useful items . There is also a new Women ’ s Shed in Quakers Hill which helps women to safely learn how to use tools plus join in the fun of making items out of wood .
Local libraries are no longer about books or a quiet place to sit , they are also fantastic community hubs with homework groups , classes for babies and preschoolers , workshops to keep you up to speed on the latest technology , and multicultural services like learning the English language . Social groups also meet at libraries for book clubs , knitting or craft groups , film clubs and writing groups .
There are multicultural community groups which provide support for people who have moved to Australia or want to stay connected with their cultural backgrounds . They can help with NDIS , housing support or youth services as well as holding fun events to connect you to other people .
If you love crafts then community groups for knitting and sewing could be for you , some even donate the work to local organisations who are in need of blankets or clothes for babies . Some centres offer courses for parents or have mental health or even legal support available .
All of the community resources that are available in our area will help you to connect with other locals who enjoy similar interests , help you to develop your own community and build your own network of friends .
So don ’ t stay at home and feel isolated , check online what your local community offers that you might be interested in and go out and make some friends !
Community groups come in many different forms , from book clubs to running groups and cultural events .
BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 38 // MAY 2024 11