BERRI Community Centre’s purpose as a place for people to connect with others, learn new skills and seek support will be showcased to the Riverland community next week as part of community celebration.
Country agency ac.care will officially launch the Berri Community Centre as part of a free public celebration from 11am on Wednesday, June 4, officially marking the site’s status as a community centre.
Long-term Department of Human Services funding to support activities at ac.care’s Riverland service hub prompted the name change and provided additional resources to combat social isolation, promote a stronger sense of belonging for people who are seeking connection and foster inclusive, equitable and resilient local communities.
The centre, located at 5 Kealley Street, also remains home to all of ac.care’s Riverland services, including foster care, homelessness, emergency relief, financial counselling, Aboriginal services, family and youth support and more.
ac.care Berri Community Centre coordinator Sue Dayman said ac.care was successful in its funding application after demonstrating a strong connection to the local community, as well as proven capacity to deliver appropriate and quality services.
“People from all walks of life visit the centre each day and interact with the services and opportunities differently based on their circumstances,” Ms Dayman said.
“One of the newer, popular aspects has been the weekly interactive, fun activities that connect people through conversation, art, music, gardening, games and more.
“We know the negative effects of loneliness and social isolation on people’s health can be significant so these groups bring together a broad range of people to connect, have fun and learn new skills.”
Ms Dayman said ongoing improvements to the centre’s rear yard, supported by the Department for Human Services, Community Connections and Skylight Mental Health, had created a vibrant, welcoming space, complete with community garden, shelter and a new outdoor kitchen.
She encouraged the Riverland community to attend next Wednesday and explore the opportunities available locally.
“We would love to see the community embrace and explore the Berri Community Centre on June 4 or another time by visiting us at Kealley Street and even jumping into a group activity,” she said.
Ms Dayman credited volunteers for their key role in providing support in daily centre operations.
Please register to attend to support our event planning.
The community celebration falls just short of the nine-year anniversary of ac.care’s move to 5 Kealley Street in June 2016.
Drop by the Berri Community Centre at 5 Kealley Street, Berri or call 8580 5300 to learn more about ac.care’s services.
Follow the Berri Community Centre noticeboard – ac.care on Facebook to stay connected to the latest news, events and opportunities at the centre.
