Welfare agency seeks region’s input

IF you may have a spare ninety minutes every three months, a desire to help others, and are engaged in community issues across the Central Highlands, then Cafs may have the perfect opportunity for you.

The child and family support organisation needs at least five new volunteer members for their community advisory committee, with the group tasked with providing feedback on Cafs activities and profile.

“Participants offer an individual perspective and reflect community views regarding Cafs services and operations,” said committee chair and Cafs board member Jayne Ferguson.

The committee was created three years ago as a means of closer collaboration with people across the region.

CEO Wendy Sturgess said committee members can be Cafs’ “eyes and ears” and champions out in the community, discussing the work and needs of the organisation with their networks and gaining additional grassroots perspectives.

“We really want to be on track, meeting the needs of the local community, not just in our service provision, but how we communicate with the region,” she said.

“It’s also important as part of our quality governance framework, but we are excited to do it, because it’s good practice to check in and get feedback from as many different people as possible.”

Committee members could provide feedback and share ideas on issues from the annual report to foster carer recruitment.

“We’re not looking for subject matter experts,” Ms Sturgess said. “We provide a lot of information about what it is that we do. Come on board and you’ll be supported, with opportunities to learn.”

The Cafs board is aiming to bring together a diverse committee of people but would particularly like to see more young people get involved.

All voluntary positions on the committee will last for an initial 12-month period, with feedback and ideas directly communicated to the board.

“I really enjoy the meetings,” said Ms Ferguson. “For some members it’s a learning curve but they all enjoy each other’s company and there are lots of laughs. It’s quite relaxed.

“We have conversations, something to eat together, make connections, and have great conversations.”

Those on the committee will be able to demonstrate they are committed to supporting vulnerable children and families, but they don’t have to have been a Cafs client.

“It’s an hour-and-a-half, four times a year, and it’s a great thing to have on your resume to say you’ve given back to the community,” Ms Sturgess said. “It might even be a gateway for people.

“We’re a highly trained organisation, and a safe, inclusive and welcoming place to be.”

Contact [email protected] for more information.