We’re here to help you stay active, healthy and socially connected
Do you want to make new friends, keep active and stay socially connected? Then Balwyn Evergreen Centre is the place for you. We’re a dynamic and caring community offering a range of activities for seniors in and around Boroondara.
Designed to support seniors and their carers, Balwyn Evergreen Centre ensures you, or your family members, can live independently within a warm and supportive community.
To read more about the work of Balwyn Evergreen Centre go to their website here.
Calling for volunteers to combat social isolation amongst seniors
Balwyn Evergreen Centre, a community centre dedicated to ensuring that older individuals stay active, healthy and socially connected, is calling on Australian businesses to step up and actively involve their employees in the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).
This vital initiative, funded by the Australian Federal Government, seeks to address the growing issue of social isolation among older Australians.
A call to action for businesses
Balwyn Evergreen Centre is urging businesses to actively involve their staff in the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) by incorporating volunteer hours into their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
By encouraging employees to dedicate just one hour every fortnight to volunteer, businesses can enhance their CSR efforts and play a crucial role in improving the wellbeing of older individuals. This initiative not only supports older adults but also fosters a more engaged, empathetic, and connected workforce, offering significant benefits to both the community and the company.
The value of volunteering
Tina Hogarth-Clarke, CEO of Balwyn Evergreen Centre, says, ‘By engaging in volunteer activities, employees become socially connected to the organisation and the community. This connection amplifies the health and happiness of the workforce. Employees not only give back but also continue to develop crucial soft skills such as empathy, communication, and teamwork.’
Building connections and enhancing wellbeing
The ACVVS pairs trained volunteers with older individuals to provide companionship and support, directly aligning with Balwyn Evergreen’s mission to keep older people active, healthy and socially engaged.
Ms. Hogarth-Clarke says, ‘Social isolation can lead to poor mental and physical health outcomes. Regular visits help build meaningful connections, making a real difference in each other’s lives.’
Business benefits
Businesses that encourage their staff to volunteer through the ACVVS can expect to see several benefits:
- Enhanced employee morale: volunteering boosts employee morale and job satisfaction, leading to a happier and more productive workforce.
- Skill development: employees develop and refine soft skills, which are invaluable in the workplace.
- Corporate altruism: companies that support volunteer programs enhance their community contributions and demonstrate a commitment to community wellbeing.
Join the movement
‘We are calling on businesses across Melbourne to support their employees in volunteering for the ACVVS. This program not only enriches the lives of older individuals but also brings joy and fulfillment to the volunteers. Together, we can combat social isolation and build a stronger, more connected community.’ Ms Hogarth-Clarke says.
Get involved
Businesses, friends, family members, and aged care providers are encouraged to reach out to Balwyn Evergreen Centre to learn more about the ACVVS. For more information or to register interest as a volunteer, contact Balwyn Evergreen Centre at 9836 9681 or visit www.balwynevergreen.org.au/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme.
Some of the work done by Balwyn Evergreen Centre
Diane Falzon
Balwyn Evergreen Centre is a community centre dedicated to ensuring that older individuals stay active, healthy and socially connected.
Championing men’s health and community connection
An important theme in the work of Balwyn Evergreen Centre is the active support they give to the health and wellbeing of men in our community. The Centre recognises the vital role that community-driven support plays in encouraging men to stay physically active, mentally engaged and socially connected. Programs such as the men’s exercise classes and Men’s Kitchen offer men the opportunity to look after their own health, while being there for one another.
Balwyn Evergreen’s Men’s Kitchen – where tasty meals meet meaningful connections
Monthly Men’s Kitchen cooking classes at the Centre give participants the opportunity to experience a unique blend of culinary exploration and social connection.
Led by qualified nutritionist and Balwyn Evergreen volunteer, Ruby Cheung, these classes are designed to teach new skills, improve nutrition knowledge and foster a sense of community. Participants are guided through interactive cooking demonstrations, where they learn to prepare delicious meals and discover the secrets of maintaining a healthy diet.
But the true highlight? Enjoying the fruits of their labour with new friends and creating a shared experience around the table.
The bold voices of 3 extraordinary women at Balwyn Evergreen Centre
The Centre celebrates the contribution of 3 women associated with the organisation. Despite their varied roles within the Centre, each is united by a common goal to empower older Victorians and build a resilient and connected community.
Joanne Zhou is a dedicated board member at Balwyn Evergreen Centre and a sales and marketing professional who energises community events and fosters inclusive outreach at Balwyn Evergreen Centre. Tina Hogarth-Clarke is the Centre’s CEO who champions gender equality and ensures aged care services remain responsive and empathetic. Jo Golds is a seasoned exercise instructor with more than 40 years of teaching experience who inspires women to embrace movement and social engagement through her energising exercise to music classes.
Balwyn Evergreen Centre is proud of these extraordinary women whose diverse roles enrich every facet of our community. Their wisdom and dedication serve as the vital currency that strengthens their families and our broader society.
To read more about these aspects of the Balwyn Evergreen Centre, please go here.
Call out for volunteer drivers
Balwyn Evergreen Centre, a community centre dedicated to ensuring that older individuals stay active, healthy and socially connected, is urgently seeking volunteer drivers to help transport seniors in the City of Boroondara. The centre relies solely on the generous contribution of time and skills from volunteers to continue providing vital services.
Who we are
Balwyn Evergreen Centre is a cornerstone of the community, offering a range of exercise and social activities designed to support the well-being of older adults. Our vibrant community centre is a place where seniors can stay engaged, make new friends, and participate in activities that promote their physical and mental health.
The need
Our clients depend on volunteer drivers to safely bring them from their homes to the centre for essential services. We are currently experiencing an urgent need for volunteer transport drivers for weekday pickups (minivan or car, short shifts) and Tuesday bus outings (minivan 9.30 am-4.30 pm). Full training and ongoing support are provided.
How you can help
We are calling on the community to spread the word through your networks, including members, staff, friends, and relatives. Post our flyer on your notice boards or in your newsletters. Give us a shout-out at your meetings or gatherings.
Tina Hogarth-Clarke, CEO Balwyn Evergreen Centre says, ‘Our volunteer drivers are the lifeline of our community. They ensure our seniors remain connected, active, and independent. We invite everyone to consider joining our team and making a real difference in the lives of our seniors.,
Volunteer spotlight: David Embury
David Embury became involved with Evergreen as a volunteer after seeing a request for drivers in a newsletter. With a passion for driving spanning 50 years and a background as a bus driver, David saw this as a perfect opportunity to give back to the community.
‘For me, volunteering is about filling my available time in a worthwhile way while helping the community and doing something I love. The interaction with a whole new range of people and knowing I am contributing to their well-being is incredibly fulfilling.’
David describes his typical day as a volunteer driver, from greeting clients at their homes and assisting them on and off the bus, to ensuring their walkers are securely stowed and helping with small tasks like checking their mail or bringing in their rubbish bins.
‘The support from Evergreen has been fantastic. They provide thorough training, including First Aid, and are always ready to help with any special needs of the clients. The camaraderie and friendly atmosphere make volunteering here a joy.’
David’s story highlights the profound impact volunteer drivers have on the community, enabling seniors to stay active and socially connected.
Join us:
By becoming a volunteer driver, you can experience the personal satisfaction of making a difference in someone’s life, while enjoying the sense of community and support that Balwyn Evergreen Centre offers.