By Mikayla van Loon
Building a strong community fabric starts with a network of volunteers and a social place to gather.
That’s why Upwey-Belgrave RSL Sub-branch is hosting a family fun day and volunteer expo on Saturday 16 March.
Bringing together various groups and organisations for one day and in one place, RSL administration volunteer Kylie Arndt said it is about giving people options.
“We understand that in the current society people are feeling isolated and disengaged with their fellow community,” she said.
“We are a volunteer organisation, and so we know how hard it is to get volunteers. We’re really wanting to reach out and connect with the community wherever we can. We felt this was a great opportunity that we can create a forum for local community groups to come all together all in one place.”
Inviting the broader community to learn and engage, even for just an hour, with a local organisation Ms Arndt said “hopefully a beautiful relationship blossoms from that”.
With around 30 volunteer groups on the list for having a stall, Ms Arndt said there should be something for everyone, from wildlife rescue to SES, Rotary and Lions to the local choir.
“We’re really covering a huge area of where people can get involved no matter what part of their life they’re in.
“For young families we’ve got a couple of kinders and playgroups right up to Probus coming along for that older generation too.”
Opening the RSL up for a day as well, Ms Arndt said is about making people feel comfortable and as though the space is there for them.
“We’re really trying to turn the RSL into a community hub, a place where people can come and make it really family friendly but a place where anybody can come and there will be somebody there who will be welcoming and inviting,” she said.
“Where new friendships are formed and people can reconnect back with others in their community.”
With an ageing group of members, welcoming families of ex-service personnel, service personnel and first responders is critical to the longevity of the RSL.
“We have a couple of young service members, but predominantly, they’re all over the age of 50. Probably most of them are over the age of 70. So now it is about trying to reach out to anybody and everybody.
“The RSL is now inclusive of first responders as well as the defence force. So it is letting them know we are there to support those younger veterans.
“We are there to support whatever needs they have, whether that be financial, emotional, or just somebody to sit and have a chat with you for social interaction.”
Ms Arndt said it is also important to recognise widows as part of that support offering, with social dance classes every Thursday night which is open to all ages and all abilities.
So take a moment from your Saturday and perhaps discover your next hobby, social group, activity or just meet some new people at the family day and volunteer expo.
