Learn new skills around the house

By Tania Martin
ART, computer and parenting skills are just a few of the amazing courses on offer at Neighbourhood Houses in the Hills.
The Neighbourhood Houses are set to join together to promote and celebrate all their good work for Neighbourhood House Week, from Monday, 8 May to Sunday, 14 May.
The houses in the Hills including Emerald, Selby, Kallista, Belgrave South, Cockatoo and Olinda have courses for everyone from the ages of 18 to 80.
In Emerald, local residents can join a computer or parenting class, or try something slightly different at Cockatoo while enjoying the art of natural soy candle-making, learning circus skills, or to cook West African vegetarian dishes.
At Belgrave South, courses in information technology, folk art, and a dragon and gargoyle workshop will be on offer during May.
Local residents can even give belly dancing, baby-massage courses or digital imagining a try at Selby Community House.
In Kallista, a number of courses from a HIA site safety certificate, healing sounds and occasional care is on offer.
Feeling light on their feet, residents can join in the fun of ballroom dancing at the Olinda or can learn the art of reiki.
According to the Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres (ANHLC), thousands of local people teach, learn, work, and volunteer at Neighbourhood Houses each week.
Houses will also promote the Save the Heart of the Community campaign which highlights the need for more funding.
ANHLC launched the campaign in November last year as neighbourhood houses and learning centres in the Hills contributed to struggle for viability as State Government funding continued to fall short.
The organisers of the Save the Heart of Our Community campaign is calling on the State Government for $84 million over the next five years, which will ensure that Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres will continue to offer the current level or support and service to the local community.