In 2023, the Southern Highlands Community Foundation supported Community Circles with a $10,000 grant and we are thrilled to share the positive impact that this incredible initiative has had in the Wingecarribee Shire.
Community Circles began work in the Wingcarribee Shire with the mission of helping to combat isolation and loneliness in the community through connecting people via interest groups. A Community Circle may consist of friends, family, neighbours, as well as volunteers and community groups who come together to help someone in need.
From January 2023 to May 2024, the initial target for Community Circles was to connect 150 people in the Wingecarribee LGA. In fact, they achieved an astonishing 682 community connections within the first 12 months, far surpassing their initial goal.
Here are some examples of the groups created:
- Women’s Walking Groups
- Ex-pat Groups (Irish, Italian, Indian, English)
- Writers Group
- Bundanoon Art and Pub Choirs (90+ people)
- Men’s Coffee Catch-up
- Land Care Group
“Community Circles has been fantastic for the Southern Highlands, stepping in when needed to make something happen, and then stepping back to watch that something ‘new’ turn into a thriving, flourishing and self-sustaining undertaking. Social isolation decreases, people’s sense of mental health and wellbeing increase, and the community fabric is strengthened.” Jessica Raschke
Via our granting program, the Southern Highlands Community Foundation aims to support initiatives that have impact at a grass roots level and Community Circles is a fantastic example of this. It has been a privilege to watch the positive impact that the interest groups created and supported by Community Circles have had on peoples lives.
John Perkins, Founder of the Touched by Olivia Foundation and Community Circles said;
“The grant we received from the SHCF enabled us to grow our commitment to the Wingecarribee community, expanding our range of services and support. This allowed us to reach broader range of people who were feeling isolated and disconnected.”
Community Circles
Community Circles support people to do what matters to them, turning that purpose into action and meaningful connection. To find out more about their work visit their website or the Community Circles Wingecarribee Facebook page.
Lend your support?
The Wingecarribee Shire Council is proposing to enter into a funding agreement with the Touched by Olivia Foundation for the continuation of Community Circles Wingecarribee. To show your support for this please complete this 1 minute survey.
