Community & Business
13 May, 2022
Free community events set for Malanda in May
A SERIES of free events will be offered by ECHO Empowering Services in Malanda this month to help educate and give support to those in the community who need it most.
A SERIES of free events will be offered by ECHO Empowering Services in Malanda this month to help educate and give support to those in the community who need it most.
After the group’s recent move to 11-15 Eacham Place, its facilities have undergone renovations to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Their first event for May is a morning tea for Volunteers Week on Monday 16 May to celebrate the efforts of volunteers and the value they provide to the community.
Community worker Bel Moore said the morning tea would help volunteers connect with each other as well as opening up new opportunities in different volunteering roles.
“We are celebrating volunteer week because without volunteers, Neighbourhood Houses would struggle to operate,” she said. “Our volunteers have so much input into the management of the house and organisation (committee), and the daily running of the house with the garden, admin and event help, repairing and building things, helping others learn new skills, and so much more. “Our events don't require booking or RSVP, just informally turn up at the allotted time on the flyers and notices and we'll be there with a cuppa and something to eat, and lots of welcoming smiles!”
On Friday 20 May, ECHO will open up to celebrate National Families Week with celebrations beginning at 3.15pm. The organisation will be celebrating with the families and children they have helped support and welcome families struggling to come and have a chat.
“Anyone can attend, and we will have resources available through the week for those who can't make the event but want to drop by and talk about how the Neighbourhood House supports families via visiting services, youth space and groups, transport options, emergency relief, support for new parents, referrals for other services and more,” Ms Moore said.
The group also offer support groups such as their “Queer Youth Group”, where members of the LGBTQI+ community can come together informally and speak on topics concerning them, make friendships and fins support. The “Queer Youth Group” meets every Monday afternoon at the Eacham Place facility from 3pm until 5pm.
A JP service is also available every second Friday from 9am until 12pm to assist in special responsibilities, such as witnessing and certifying routine legal documents including wills, affidavits, statutory declarations and passport applications.
For more information on events and support groups and to learn more about ECHO, visit www.echoes.org.au
