It was in the dark ages of community development when a group of Strathalbyn residents saw the need for a local community centre, and with much grunting, growling and the odd select word, much consultation and many meetings, the Strath Neighbourhood Centre came into being.
Their mission is to support their community.
How they achieve this is through their charitable work in providing a hand up to those in need, and the hand of fellowship for those experiencing loneliness and isolation.
The centre offers a variety of activities which could not be run without a team of wonderful volunteers; one of those volunteers is Judy Eldred.
Judy has lived in Strathalbyn for 32 years and has recently retired from her retail position in Murray Bridge.
Over the years Judy has volunteered for a variety of groups that her children were involved in.
Upon retiring she wanted to be more involved, and have more social connection, with her local community.
Her decision to volunteer as a receptionist with the Strath Neighbourhood Centre is because they have a diverse range of age groups and people who volunteer and attend the centre for the activities they deliver.
Judy’s smiling face is the first thing people entering the centre see and she is very helpful and welcoming.
Judy said she found the application process to volunteer with the Strath Neighbourhood Centre easy and the people very welcoming.
Even though she didn’t need a lot of training due to her prior experience, Judy said she was still provided with a comprehensive induction and was given plenty of assistance in any areas she wasn’t familiar with.
She said she “gets a sense of purpose doing something to help others” when she volunteers.
“It is fun volunteering here and they are very accommodating and understanding if I am unable to come in on my regular day,” she said.
“Volunteers are important in the community as it helps to keep people connected.”
Anyone interested in volunteering with Strath Neighbourhood Centre can find out more by calling 0431 337 044 or emailing strathnc@gmail.com
