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 Communities is a community-led, not for profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 35 years. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station. BCR Communities Connecting people. Supporting lives. Strengthening communities. Explore our services Chat Chat COMMUNITY COMMUNITY AGED CARE NDIS Your community. BCR Communities is a community-led, not-for-profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 30 years. We believe in thriving communities living happy, healthy, meaningful and productive lives. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station – Bay & Basin 92.7FM. To find a service, get involved or discover more, please get in touch here . ALL STAGES We are for all ages and stages From creative classes for kids through to social groups for seniors, we are supporting our communities through every life stage. PEOPLE FIRST We put people first As a community-led, not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. TRUELY LOCAL We are truly local BCR Communities was created for locals by locals and nobody understands the communities of the Shoalhaven and Illawarra better than we do. RESPONSIVE We are responsive to the needs of our communities For over 30 years, we have been building brighter, more connected and resourceful communities through our services and supports. INCLUSIVE We are inclusive We welcome and celebrate every person. The diversity of our organisation reflects the diversity of our communities. LISTENING We listen to you Understanding your values and what’s important to you helps us to support you to live a happy and healthy life. Are you looking for rewarding work that makes a difference? Whether you have experience in a caring or support role or are looking for new and fulfilling work, if you share our core values of inclusion, integrity, empathy and encouraging wellness, get in touch here . Keep up to date with our latest news 35 Years, One Big Thank You: BCR Kicks Off Anniversary by Honouring Its Volunteers BCR Brings Sustainable Fashion to the Runway BCR Celebrates International Nurses Day BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop Supports Youth & Community BCR Pocket Pantry Opens in Sanctuary Point BCR Youth Collective Textile Art Workshop Empowers Young People 1/1 © 2023 by BCR Communities. Privacy Policy

The BCR Community Services team delivers flexible programs and projects that build connection, inclusion and wellbeing. This includes community activities, programs, services and events. We can also provide information, assist with forms and link in with other appropriate support services. YOUTH & COMMUNITY SERVICES Supporting People. Strengthening Communities. COMMUNITY SERVICES At BCR Communities, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to connect, grow and thrive. Our Youth and Community Services bring together a range of programs designed to support young people, individuals and families through every stage of life. Talk to our team Request more information Heading 4 Explore our services below to find the support that's right for you. Supporting young people to discover their potential through practical learning, creative opportunities and meaningful community connections. Youth Collective Find out more Supporting young people (17-24) and First Nations people to build rewarding careers in care through training, real-world experience and personalised support. BCR Care Career Pathways Find out more Helping learner drivers overcome barriers by providing supervised driving practice, mentoring and support to achieve their P-plates. Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program Find out more Supporting learner drivers of all abilities with personalised lessons, experienced instructors and modified vehicles to help make driving accessible to everyone. BCR Inclusive Driving School Find out more Offering a range of community programs and support services, including our 2nd Chance Op Shop and Food Pantry, to assist local people when they need it most. Community Services Find out more A volunteer-powered community radio station connecting people through local stories, diverse music and community conversation. Bay & Basin 92.7FM Find out more

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