BCR Communities has kicked off its 35th anniversary celebrations the way it started 35 years ago – by putting volunteers first. Staff, volunteers and special guests gathered recently for our Volunteer Celebration Dinner, the first event to mark 35 years of BCR's work across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. There was good food, lots of laughter, a fun trivia competition, prizes and awards, but the real focus of the night was recognising the volunteers whose everyday generosity keeps BCR's programs running. It was the perfect way to open our anniversary celebrations. Volunteers have been essential to BCR Communities since the very beginning, and our growth over 35 years owes so much to a long line of dedicated, selfless people who really wanted change for their community. Making a difference in so many ways BCR's volunteers turn up in more places than most people realise. Some of the ways they get involved include: Aged Care Social Support – helping out with group activities and outings, driving our buses, and simple companionship for older people. Respite– supporting our staff to ensure our clients living with dementia have a welcoming, enjoyable experience, while their carers get a chance to rest and recharge. Ls to Ps Driver Mentors – sitting alongside learner drivers as they clock up the supervised hours they need for their licence. Bay & Basin Community Radio (92.7FM) – presenters, producers, and the behind-the-scenes crew who keep our local radio on air. Activities Hub – supporting the community through our woodworking shed, our enrichment gardens and even our BCR chicken coop. The Pirates Band - providing entertainment across our community with their repertoire of classic songs. Community services support – lending a hand with the Pocket Pantry, the BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop, Christmas Hampers and many other community initiatives. More than anything, the dinner was a chance to pause and take stock of just how many volunteer hours have gone into BCR over the past three and a half decades. To everyone who has given their time, past or present, BCR says thank you. Interested in becoming a volunteer with BCR Communities? Whether you're drawn to supporting older people, mentoring a learner driver, getting involved with community radio, or simply lending a hand at events – we'd love to hear from you.

Held at the BCR Youth & Community Centre, the fashion parade brought together participants from our Social Connect groups in Albion Park and the Bay & Basin for an afternoon celebrating confidence, creativity and the joy of pre-loved fashion. From sophisticated business wear and fabulous formal outfits to a 70s-inspired tennis look and a funky retro jumpsuit, the runway was full of colourful second-hand finds proving that style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The highlight of the day was seeing three members of our Social Connect groups step up and join in the fun themselves, proudly strutting their stuff down the catwalk in outfits they had chosen from the BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop. There were plenty of smiles, laughs and cheers from the crowd, with everyone embracing the playful and supportive atmosphere. Events like this are a wonderful reminder that sustainable fashion can be fun, affordable and accessible for everyone. Shopping pre-loved not only helps reduce waste and support the environment, but also gives clothing a second life while helping local people and families access affordable fashion close to home. The BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop is more than just an op shop. Located within the BCR Youth & Community Centre in Sanctuary Point, it also creates valuable hands-on retail and customer service experience for local young people, helping them build confidence, develop practical skills and connect with their community in a supportive environment. A huge thank you to the BCR Community Services team, our fantastic models and everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success. Judging by the laughter and excitement in the room, we think this might just need to become a regular event.

International Nurses Day is a special opportunity to celebrate the incredible nurses who care for and support our community every day, and at BCR Communities, we are so grateful for the skill, professionalism, dedication and kindness of our amazing nurses. As part of our aged care and Support at Home services, our nurses help older people stay safe, healthy and independent while continuing to live comfortably in their own homes. For many clients, they become trusted and familiar faces, someone who not only provides clinical care, but also takes the time to listen, reassure and genuinely get to know the person behind the care plan. From helping someone recover after a hospital stay to supporting medication management, wound care, chronic health conditions and general wellbeing, our nurses provide important in-home nursing support to local people and families throughout the Shoalhaven and Illawarra. No two days are ever the same. One visit might involve a clinical assessment or health check, while another could simply be spending time with a client who needs encouragement, reassurance or a friendly chat. Our nurses also work closely with families, carers and other health professionals to make sure each person receives the support that’s right for them. Last week, our wonderful nurses hosted a Biggest Morning Tea in support of Cancer Council Australia. With games, treats, giveaways and lots of laughter, the event brought staff together while raising close to $400 for a cause that touches so many people in our community. It was such a lovely reflection of the warmth, generosity and community spirit our nurses bring to BCR Communities every day. Thank you to our amazing Clinical Team for everything you do. Your care and support make a real difference in the lives of so many people across our community, and we are incredibly lucky to have you as part of BCR.

BCR JOB BOARD Can’t find what you’re looking for today? FILL IN THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM BELOW AND WE WILL INFORM YOU OF FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES! First name Last name Phone Email Preferred general location What type of work are you looking for? Message Submit

BCR Smart Start Style Sessions provide free clothing, styling and practical support to help people feel confident and prepared for job interviews and life events. Located in the BCR Youth and Community Centre in Sanctuary Point. SMART START STYLING SESSIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES Look good and feel confident A job interview? School formal? Special occasion? We can help! Sometimes finding the right outfit can make all the difference. Our FREE Smart Start Style Sessions help people of all ages and genders find clothing that makes them look and feel their best, whatever the occasion. Whether you're preparing for a job interview, starting a new job, have a court appointment or attending an important event, our friendly team is here to help. And it's not just about the outfit! We can also help with resumes, interview preparation and connecting you with other support services. Book a Session What's the occasion? Whatever you're getting ready for, we're here to help! JOB INTERVIEW Make a great first impression with an outfit that helps you feel confident and ready. STARTING WORK Get ready for your first day with clothing that's comfortable, practical and work-ready. SCHOOL FORMAL Find something fabulous for your big night without the big price tag. SPECIAL OCCASION From milestone celebrations to a court appointment, we'll help you find something suitable. There is no pressure or judgement, just friendly support and a chance to find something that feels right for you. Your style session - what to expect 45 minutes. Your style. Your choice. Completely FREE! 1. Come on in! Meet our friendly team and tell us a little about what you're looking for. We'll chat about your style, preferences and what you need your outfit for. 2. Find your look! Browse our collection of quality new and pre-loved clothing. Our team will help you put together an outfit that suits you and makes you feel great. 3. Walk out feeling ready. Take home your outfit at no cost. If you're preparing for work, we can also help with resumes, interview practice and practical advice.. Sometimes getting ready for the next step involves more than finding the right clothes. Our Smart Start Style Sessions can also help with: Resume support – Get help writing or updating your resume. Interview preparation – Practise your interview skills and build confidence. Job readiness – Get practical tips for entering the workforce. Extra support – We can connect you with services such as financial counselling and free legal assistance.You don't have to do it all on your own. Contact us to book your Smart Start Style Session Name Email Phone Occasion Message Submit Smart Start Styling is only made possible thanks to the generosity of our community, local businesses, volunteers and partners, including Thread Together and Good360. By giving quality new and pre-loved clothing a new home, we're helping people access the clothes they need while keeping perfectly good clothing in circulation. It's a simple idea that's making a real difference.

With work sheds, gardens, a radio station, and music and art studios, there is usually a lot happening at the BCR Activities Hub. It is a place where people can come together to participate in activities, join in events or work on meaningful projects with the aim of helping others in the community. The BCR Youth Collective Pods Precinct is a space created by young people, for young people – a place where you can be yourself, connect with others, and figure out what’s next at your own pace. Whether you're looking for support, want to build skills for work or study, or just need a safe, welcoming spot to hang out and meet people who get you, this is your space. Designed with input from young people living in the Bay and Basin, the Youth Collective is all about creating opportunities, building confidence, and backing you as you take steps toward the future you want. Programs inspired by you and your crew Want to find out more? Curious & Creative is a hands-on program that helps young people re-engage with learning through creativity, practical projects and connection. In a supportive environment, you’ll build confidence, discover your strengths and find new ways to learn and grow. school re-engagement The BCR Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program helps young people build their driving hours with a supportive volunteer mentor. We provide the car, guidance and encouragement to help you go from Ls to Ps and gain confidence and independence along the way. Learn more Ls to Ps driver mentoring program BCR Retail and Hospitality Training helps you build the practical skills and confidence to step into work. Learn customer service, barista basics and point-of-sale skills in a relaxed, supportive environment and get ready for your first job or a fresh start. BCR retail and hospitality training These programs connect young people with free, practical training through providers like TAFE and Kiama Community College. If you’re not currently at school, we’ll help you find the right course to build skills, gain qualifications and take the next step towards employment. BCR further education and training BCR Enterprises gives young people the chance to gain real work experience and practical skills in a supportive environment. Build confidence through on-the-job training in areas like lawn and garden services and domestic assistance, while making a positive difference in the community. BCR enterprises BCR Smart Styling Sessions help you feel confident and ready for your next job interview. Get help choosing a professional outfit, preparing for common interview questions and learning how to present yourself with confidence. BCR smart styling sessions Spaces to inspire you and your crew BCR youth collective pods precinct Collective Café Gallery and Meeting Space Makers Space Yarn Circle Wellness Centre Zen Garden BCR Sanctuary Point youth and community centre Community Space 2nd Chance Op Shop Smart Start Styling BCR activities hub Creative Space and Kiln Woodwork Shed Community Radio Station Community Produce Garden "My name is Shania, and I first became involved with BCR in 2022 through the Curious & Creative High School Re-engagement program. Back then, I was in Year 7, struggling with anxiety after being bullied and disconnected from school and my community. BCR was welcoming, kind, and non-judgmental. Through the program, I gained my confidence back and returned to school. I was part of the group that helped design the Youth Pods, and it was amazing to be listened to and know we were creating something special for young people in the Bay & Basin. Having a place that's just for us makes a huge difference, especially if you're not connected to school. Even when things got tough again last year, BCR was there to support me. I’ve now graduated from Curious & Creative and I’m heading back into Year 10 full-time with plans to finish my HSC and build a career in child studies. Shania Want to find out more? First name Last name Email Phone Type your message here Submit