A Bayswater-based organisation, Pakari, renowned for its dedication to mental health and community support, is inviting locals to a free and festive event on Thursday, 11 December, from 10am at Shop 6, 40 Station St, Bayswater.
The event will be held at its community space and offers attendees a chance to decorate Christmas cookies and connect with others.
Pakari’s senior community support worker and community and social engagement coordinator, Daniel Robertson said the event is part of their continued efforts to engage meaningfully with the local community.
“We want to be more than just an NDIS provider, our aim is to create connection, raise awareness about the social hub we operate, and create opportunities for people to come together,” Mr Robertson said.
Pakari’s community hub serves as both a drop-in centre and a space for running NDIS supports, with the hope that events like this one will encourage greater interaction and awareness of the services it offer.
“It’s about connecting with people, giving our clients the opportunity to engage with those around them, and creating new traditions that we can continue to build on year after year,” Mr Robertson said.
The cookies are provided by Bayswater’s Papu Deli, with all necessary decorations supplied by Pakari.
The event also encourages participants to reflect on and share their accomplishments over the past year, particularly in relation to the creative work they have developed.
“Creative activities like decorating cookies are perfect for people who might feel apprehensive about joining in,” Mr Robertson said.
There’s no pressure to ‘get it right.’ Even if the design doesn’t go as planned, it’s still a project that people can complete and feel a sense of accomplishment.”
“This can go a long way in building mental resilience, and the positive memories people create in these environments can motivate them to stay engaged with the community moving forward.”
The event will showcase a range of creative works produced by Pakari’s participants to underscore its growth and progress.
Mr Robertson said many participants begin their journey with the organisation unsure of their capabilities, but over time, discover talents they never knew they had.
“We believe these achievements deserve to be celebrated, and we’re excited to share them with the wider community,” he said.
All are welcome to attend the free festive fun event.
