Celebrating a decade of serving the community

United Way Glenelg is proud to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Lewis Court Fund, established in 2013 to honour the legacy of Lewis Court Home for the Aged.

For the past decade, the fund has provided ongoing support to vital community projects and initiatives in Glenelg Shire, ensuring that the spirit of the original aged care facility continues to benefit the region for generations to come.

Lewis Court Home for the Aged was built over many years with support from public appeals, war bonds, The Gold Raiders Club, local service clubs, donations, and Federal Government grants.

The facility served the community well until the establishment of a new state-of-the-art aged care home nearby made it clear that Lewis Court was no longer viable for residential use.

Following extensive community consultation, the property was sold to Dhauwurd-Wurrung Elderly and Community Health Service Inc., and United Way Glenelg was entrusted as the custodian of the funds from the sale.

United Way Glenelg executive officer Nicole Carr said there was no denying the significance of the Lewis Court Fund.

“The Lewis Court Home for the Aged was built on the generosity and dedication of our community, and we are committed to ensuring that the same spirit lives on through the Lewis Court Fund,” she said. “Over the past decade, the fund has supported initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of our older people and broader community, reflecting the original values of Lewis Court.

“Our focus has always been on preserving the capital to ensure the fund remains sustainable while making a meaningful difference through annual distributions.

“This approach allows us to continue honouring the vision of the original board and donors, while adapting to the evolving needs of our community.”

Projects supported by the fund include programs aimed at improving health outcomes, enhancing social connection for older residents, and supporting aged care initiatives across the Glenelg Shire community.

Since 2014, more than $300,000 from the Lewis Court Fund has been allocated to support a diverse range of projects that benefit older people in the Glenelg Shire community.

The first allocation, made that inaugural year, was $745 to 3RPC and $10,230 to Edgarley Assisted Living and since then, numerous organisations and initiatives have been funded, including:

3RPC Inc Community Radio

Christmas Hampers (2022, 2023, and 2024)

CWA Heywood Branch

Dartmoor Bush Nursing

Days for Girls

Edgarley Assisted Living Inc

Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten

Harbourside Lodge

Heywood Bowling Club

Heywood Golf Club

Heywood Men’s Shed

Heywood Rural Health

Kyeema Support Services

Legacy Lodge Portland

Narrawong Mechanics Hall

Nelson Tennis Club

Portland Bay Ladies Probus Club Inc

Portland Bowling Club Inc

Portland Community Garden

Portland Croquet Club

Portland District Health

Portland District U3A

Portland Golf Club

Portland Harbour Probus Club

Portland Ladies Probus

Portland Men’s Shed

Portland Masonic Lodge

Portland Surf Life Saving Club

Rotary Club of Portland

RSL Bowling Club

Seaview House

SWAMP

Winter Care Packages (2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024)

“These funds have enabled initiatives such as community health services, social programs, and essential support packages, all contributing to a better quality of life for older residents in the community,” Ms Carr said.

“The Lewis Court Fund’s commitment to the well-being of older people has created a lasting impact that reflects the legacy and values of the original Lewis Court Home for the Aged.

“It’s a privilege to be part of something that has such a lasting impact and continues to make a difference in the lives of so many.”