Like most small community organisations, Iris Foundation works hard to maximise the positive impact created from the resources we have. We continuously review our programs and events to ensure they are COVID-safe, efficient, and worthwhile for all involved.
Having spent recent months occupied by this important work behind the scenes, we’ve been reflecting on milestones reached, as well as the road ahead of us. We begin the year with a broad range of projects on the horizon, all with the common aim of fostering resilience, hope and connections in the Central Coast community.
Join CBWN for an International Women’s Day breakfast
The Community and Business Women’s Network is celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day with a delicious breakfast at Mercure Kooindah Waters on Friday, March 5.
Arriving at 7am, guests will be joined by our featured speaker, retired Detective Superintendent Deb Wallace, who will share her unique experience amongst the pioneering women in the senior ranks of the NSW Police Force. From working the infamous Anita Cobby murder as a probationary constable to leading anti-drug and gang squads in western Sydney, Deb trod a trailblazing path that is sure to inspire others.
Tickets for this breakfast are strictly limited – CLICK HERE to book now.
Cool Connections in School turns five
Our resilience program for young people in Years 5 and 6, Cool Connections in School, is now in its fifth year. Using a mix of creative projects and group discussions, the program helps participants to identify their own strengths and manage challenges more effectively.
Cool Connections was first piloted in two Central Coast primary schools in 2016, with many participants experiencing significant personal breakthroughs since then. One of the program’s key benefits is the lasting connections it creates between participants, who get to know each other better in a relaxed setting.
Four programs are currently underway in Term 1, alongside an extensive review of reporting processes, to ensure best-practice outcomes are consistently achieved and measured. Fortunately, our specialist facilitators are a highly adaptable bunch, who always make delivering a safe and engaging program their top priority.
Cool Connections would not have made such progress without the generous financial backing of many people and organisations over the years, including our current major supporter, Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.
To find out more about Cool Connections in School, please CLICK HERE.
Did you miss the release of our 2020 Annual Report? CLICK HERE for a comprehensive review of our activities during a very challenging but rewarding year for Iris Foundation.
Debbie Gaunt Foundation off to a promising start
Iris Foundation is proud to support the Debbie Gaunt Foundation, a new local organisation that works to build awareness about the mental health impacts of perimenopause on many women.
Since its launch in October 2020, the Foundation has already raised more than $9,000 towards a comprehensive online course to educate doctors about women’s health being created at Monash University in Melbourne. This builds on the $20,000 already contributed by founder Craig Gaunt, who lost his wife Debbie to suicide in 2019.
Fundraising for this worthy cause continues in 2021, with several events currently in the planning stages. To find out more:
CLICK HERE or visit www.facebook.com/DebbieGauntFoundation.
Help us reduce the risk of suicide
To make a tax-deductible donation in support of mental health on the Central Coast, click here.
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