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BCR Communities Building Connected Resourceful Communities (Formerly Bay & Basin Community Resources) Explore our services COMMUNITY Chat Chat COMMUNITY AGEING WELL NDIS Your community. BCR Communities is a community-owned, 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 BCR Communities NDIS Participants are Kicking Goals Meet Leonie, BCR's new Lifestyle Activities Coordinator BCR Communities Youth Markets “I think this is a wonderful job because I like talking to people and helping people and knowing that I am enabling them to stay living in their own home. I really enjoy working for BCR Communities, it has a family feeling and the clients and the management and the staff are all just lovely. It’s a pleasure to come to work.” FRANCINE 1/1 © 2023 by BCR Communities. Privacy Policy

AGEING WELL HISTORY BCR Communities Social Groups SPEND THE DAY WITH FRIENDS It’s time to get out of the house, have fun and spend time with your friends. The activities change every week – we might stay indoors for games, trivia or an art session or get in the bus and explore our stunning coastline or try a new café. While the activities may differ from week to week, what doesn’t change is the companionship, the conversation and something delicious for lunch! Click the buttons below to see the latest Social Group Activity Calendars. As of May 2024, we have a calendar for south Shoalhaven and one for north Shoalhaven. ​ May Calendar (south) May Calendar (north) Weekly Social Groups BCR Communities has a varied calendar of social activities throughout the week including day trips, lunches out, special events, walking groups, trivia, games, art, music and more. ​ ​ Making friends the easy way It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. Join our online social community for connection every day of the week We know that sometimes it can be difficult to leave the house to catch-up with friends, meet new friends or simply share common interests with others. There are many reasons any one of us can become socially isolated. That’s why BCR has created the BCR Communities App. Think of it as an online, or digital, Town Square - a place to meet others and get connected. You might already be a part of a social app like Facebook, or you might be completely new to online communities – either way this App is for you! ​ You can download the BCR Communities App onto your iPhone, Android Phone, iPad or Tablet. You can even access it on your computer. Once you join BCR Communities, you will be able to take part in online discussions, share information, join interest groups – for example, the Gardening Group or the Walking Group, and take a look at our Community Connects Calendar for upcoming events and activities. Most importantly, you will be able to connect with people and make new friends. ​ If this is of interest to you, but you think you might need help let us know and one of our friendly team will be more than happy to assist! Join BCR Communities "I haven’t been in the Wednesday Social Group for very long but I’m so glad I joined because they are a lovely group. It is great to be out of the house and meeting new people. I used to be a nurse so I’ve always been drawn to being around people." WILMA

AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Maintenance Program BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program services the Bay and Basin region, offering a friendly helping hand with a range of small home maintenance tasks and garden clean ups. The focus of the service is on removing risks to health and safety and maintaining a home environment which supports your independence and wellness goals. ​ You might need to change a lightbulb but feel unsteady on a ladder, maybe you need to repair an old railing or have a path that is slippery with mould and mildew? Our team will assess what needs to be done and then help you with all those minor maintenance jobs so that you can continue to live safely and independently in your own home. The BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program is funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) so you will need to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to access this service. BCR Communties CHSP “My garden is very important to me, it is what I love most about my home. Before BCR came it was such a mess that it was starting to feel really depressing looking at it. I feel so much better mentally now.” ​ DOREEN

COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES BCR Youth & Community Centre THE HEART OF SANCTUARY POINT Everyone is welcome at the Sanctuary Point Youth & Community Centre. It’s a gathering place for all ages where you will always find a friendly face. All through the year, the BCR Community Services team delivers flexible programs with the aim of strengthening and empowering our communities through projects that build cohesion, connection, inclusion and wellbeing. ​ From the Sanctuary Point Youth & Community Centre you can access a wide range of community activities, programs, services and events. We can also provide you with information, assist with forms or resumes and link you with other appropriate support services or emergency food relief. Supporting all ages and stages 0-5 YEARS Parenting Programs, Playgroups, Early Years Development, Lets Read, Celebration Days 5-8 YEARS Creative Kids projects, intergenerational activities TWEENS Creative Kids Projects, Cooking Classes, DIY Workshops, Well-Being Workshops YOUTH Intergenerational Projects, Employment Pathway Programs, Youth Advocacy & Support, Educational, Social & Recreational activities, Teen Art Classes EVERYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY Skill Share Programs, Culture Share Workshops, Boomerang Bags, Arts & Ceramics, Craft Group, Cooking Classes, Women's Home DIY , Garden Projects, Community Fairs, Well-Being Days, Information Days and so much more. “I just want to thank you for the your excellent summer holiday program. My daughter was able to attend the sea kayaking, rock climbing and snorkelling. She was initially anxious about all three activities but was glad she pushed through these feelings as she ended up having a great time. After each activity we saw her confidence grow, and she was open to trying new experiences. She made friends and even reconnected with students she knew from her primary school days. It was a great start to the school year. She is more confident and willing to step out of her comfort zone. I strongly believe her participation in this program helped her start the year on a positive note."

AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Care Packages STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY AT HOME A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. Home Care Packages are designed for those with more complex or intensive care needs that go beyond what the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) can provide. Once you have been assigned your government-subsidised Home Care Package through My Aged Care, your experienced BCR Communities care team will work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your values, lifestyle, needs and goals. A BCR Home Care Package can support you with: Individualised supports: based around your interests and preferred activities Personal services: aimed to assist you with any personal care needs you may have Shopping: making sure you have all you need to generate healthy meals at home Meal preparation: assisting you to prepare or have delivered fresh and nutritious meals Transport: helping you get to medical or other essential appointments Declutter and packing: helping keep your house safe, tidy and organised In-home respite: keeping you company when your carer has other commitments Minor home modifications and equipment: so you can stay independent in your home Allied Health support: to assist with maintaining independence in your home Why Choose BCR Communities for In-Home Support? COMMUNITY Personalised Care Our team takes the time to understand your goals, lifestyle and values so that we can create a personalised plan that is just for you. COMMUNITY Consistent quality care You will be supported by a team of people from your local community who are experienced, caring and committed to providing the best quality support. COMMUNITY 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. COMMUNITY We are flexible and responsive We understand that your needs and goals may change over time so we will regularly review your plan to ensure you are always living the best life possible. COMMUNITY 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. COMMUNITY We are inclusive We welcome people from across our communities and celebrate the diversity they bring to our organisation. Values Based Care Plans The BCR Communities difference is that we really get to know you before creating a plan of support. We use ExSitu , an innovative and award-winning app designed to provide the highest level of values-based care. We are moving from filling in complicated or confusing forms so you can sit in the comfort or your own home with a BCR care staff member and answer ExSitu’s simple card-based questions. The app will help you to identify what is important to you, what gives you joy, and how we might support you to live your best possible life. By establishing your core values and lifestyle desires, ExSitu can generate a values-based care plan that is truly personalised for you. Find out more Steps to getting a Home Care Package STEP 1 The first step in accessing a government-subsidised Home Care Package is to contact My Aged Care to check your eligibility. You can call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au My Aged Care STEP 2 If you are eligible, a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit your home to provide a free home support assessment. During this meeting they will identify what your home care needs are and confirm your eligibility to receive government-subsidised support. STEP 3 My Aged Care will write to you to let you know the outcome of your assessment and the level of care you are eligible for and approved to receive. There is a waiting list for HCP funding to be assigned. My Aged Care will notify you in writing once you have been assigned a package. Am I eligible for a Home Care Package? Eligibility for a government-subsidised Home Care Package is based on your age and your support needs. A Home Care Package could be what you need if you are: need support with everyday activities need support to continue to living independently in your own home and your community 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) OR 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low income, homeless or at risk of being homeless. Schedule of fees “I can’t fault them in any way and I appreciate everything they do for me because they are lovely girls and I would be lost without them.” ELAINE

AGED CARE HISTORY Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) Home Maintenance Program Wellness Programs Home Care Packages Short-Term Restorative Care Programs Day Respite Cottage Social Groups Carer Support

BCR JOB BOARD

ABOUT US HISTORY Our history Around 30 years ago there was a real gap in community services and supports in the Bay and Basin region of NSW, especially for young people. While the Bay and Basin lacked resources, it was rich with people who loved where they lived and were willing to give their time and energy to making sure their community had a dedicated space where local youth and families could access services, programs and activities. In 1989, a group of concerned local residents went to the Shoalhaven City Council to try and find a solution for the gap in community services. From that initial meeting the Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) Committee was formed. ​ The first goal for the Committee was to work with Council to build the Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre. Because of their persistence and hard work, the Centre was opened in 1991 and for over 30 years it has been a gathering place for all ages, and has held countless activities, events, workshops and social groups. It is a safe and welcoming space creating many happy memories over the years. From that initial success, BBCR continued to grow and diversify in response to the needs of our local communities. ​ In 1993, we began our Aged Care services so local seniors could be supported to remain living independently in their own homes. In 2000 we started delivering the national Respite For Carers program in the Shoalhaven which transitioned into the HCP and CHSP services we currently provide. ​ In 2002 we launched our radio station, Bay & Basin Community Radio 92.7FM so locals could keep connected and up-to-date with what was happening in their own community. Today we are proud to say we support over 700 seniors and people with disability in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra, and local community members of all ages access programs and events within our Community Spaces and our Activities Hub each week. ​ ​ Bay & Basin Community Resources to BCR Communities As our organisation has grown, our name has also evolved to better reflect our vision and mission, and the many diverse communities we support across the Shoalhaven and the Illawarra. From Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) we have changed our name to BCR Communities – ‘Building Connected Resourceful’ Communities. We may have a different name today than we did in 1991 but at our heart, we are still the same grass roots organisation that is committed to partnering with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. We believe everyone living in our region has the right to live happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. 1/6 MISSION & VISION Our mission... We partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. Our vision... Communities living happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. Our values... Promote inclusion We proudly work with and foster the diversity of individual and community needs. Act with integrity We are honest, fair, transparent and build trusting relationships. Show empathy We are partners in your journey. Encourage wellness We value the health of each person by offering innovative lifestyle choices. OUR BOARD Meet our Board Joanne McAlister Chairperson Jo moved to the Bay & Basin area to raise her two children in 1994. Over her career she has worked extensively with the Department of Education in both the Primary and Secondary sectors. Jo first became involved with BCR in 2011 as she wanted to do something for her local community. She felt the organisation reflected her own personal values and has found being a Board Director both fulfilling and rewarding. Jo has proudly watched the organisation thrive and flourish, providing much needed services to many people. In the past Jo has volunteered with the BCR Communities social group which she describes as a wonderful experience and so helpful for her own well- being. Michele Smith Board Director Michele has had over 30 years of experience as a Primary School Teacher and continues to work for the Department of Education as Teacher In Charge in the Shoalhaven Region delivering the School Swimming and Water Safety Programs to local schools. After settling in the Shoalhaven in 1981, through teaching and in support of her children she became involved with a number of community committees of local organisations in support of youth activities. The local Little Athletics, Jervis Bay and Zone Pony Clubs, Bjelke Petersen Physical Culture to name a few. The opportunity to join a diverse community organisation such as BCR was offered and she has been on The Board for over 10 years. Sharon O'Brien Board Director Sharon has been a volunteer on the Board of BCR Communities for 10 years. She has 30 years of professional experience working in the Human Services Sector and holds a Bachelor of Welfare Studies, Bachelor of Education, Diploma of Leadership and Management, Diploma of Management and Adult Education Training and Assessment qualifications. Her disability experience includes leading change and quality service improvements including a Workplace Trainer pilot to support continuous improvement and compliance, and an Aboriginal Traineeship Project leading to the expansion of the learning program and traineeships across NSW. Sharon is also volunteering in a Primary Ethics teaching role within the local community. Danny Bosevski Board Director Danny has over 20 years of experience in the technology sector and holds a Masters in IT Management. He is an experienced Manager and leader of technical and customer focused teams, driving key business initiatives and advocating technology improvements in business. Danny’s passion for driving technological innovation to support business strategies is evident through successfully implementing client management systems and developing highly responsive and reliable IT systems. He is adept at implementing strategic business plans, driving growth, and improving operations. Danny is familiar with the challenges that not-for-profit organisations face every day and is keen to contribute to providing better outcomes for all BCR participants. Danny joined the Board of BCR Communities in 2024. Rebekah Webb Board Director Rebekah has a background in Health, practicing as a Physiotherapist for the past seven years in the hospital and private sector, holds a Bachelor in Physiotherapy and is also the Owner/Director of Jervis Bay Physiotherapy. She also has experience as a Committee Member on the NSW Australia Physiotherapy Association Board, consulting with professional development for Physiotherapists in Australia, focusing on rural education and neurological education improvements. Since moving to Jervis Bay five years ago, Rebekah has been actively involved in the community through sporting clubs, Community Group Exercise classes for over 65s and ATSI Community Physiotherapy funding for our local community. Rebekah has also been involved in quality improvement projects across NSW Health, Shellharbour Private Hospital, and within the local community through exercise classes and improving health and wellbeing for our local population. Rebekah has been actively involved with BCR Communities for the last four years assisting with clientele health and fitness goals. Using her expertise in her role on the Board of Directors, Rebekah aims to continue supporting our local community with health, wellbeing, accessibility and improving resources. Rebekah commenced as a volunteer Director on the Board of BCR Communities in 2024. John Harvey Board Director John holds a Bachelor Of Commerce (Marketing & Management) as well as being a qualified Electrical Supervisor. He is currently the General Manager of a specialised engineering company supplying bespoke equipment into the waste and recycling sectors. John has over 30 years of experience in management and sales including nine years as an Executive Manager in the disability sector overseeing the operation of one of Australia’s largest disability enterprises ​ He held a volunteer Board of Management role for over 20 years with Fresh Hope Venues and more recently was part of the People and Culture Committee for Fresh Hope Community Care that was tasked with overseeing the renewal process of the Board of Directors. The ability to give back has always been important to John and he welcomes the opportunity to contribute to BCR Communities through participation on the Board. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ OUR TEAM Heather Marciano CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ​ Heather has over 15 years of experience in the not for profit sector including key strategic leadership, innovation and business transformation roles within the Aged Care and Disability sectors. Heather co-authored a research paper on ageing people with disability and presented this research internationally resulting in the development of Kemira, a purpose built community which has received local, national and international awards as the first model of its kind in Australia. Heather’s experience includes executive roles in Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Operations Management, Media, Marketing and Communications, and Stakeholder Engagement. ​ Zanna Elliott PEOPLE, CULTURE AND TRANSFORMATION MANAGER Zanna holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources Management and has close to 20 years of professional HR experience. Having worked in small business through to large corporate, since joining BCR Communities 4 years ago Zanna finds the not for profit community sector the most rewarding and suited to her personal values. Zanna has worked across all areas of human resources, partnering with business leaders to help them achieve strategic and operational goals, while mitigating risk and leading cultural change. Along with a strong business acumen, Zanna’s extensive professional experience has resulted in strong and trusting relationships. ​ Lorraine Williams EXECUTIVE MANAGER AGED CARE SERVICES/REGISTERED NURSE Lorraine has been a Registered Nurse for almost 40 years, working in community and hospitals in acute care and health management. For the last 3 years Lorraine has worked for BCR firstly as a Care Manager in but more recently as Executive Manager. Lorraine has extensive clinical experience, with a passion for clinical governance, change management, innovation and developing a positive workplace that provides quality care. Lorraine has lived in the Shoalhaven for over 27 years, raising 4 children and now has 10 grandchildren. She has experience in volunteering roles in the local community including as a volunteer exec for a local community pre-school. ​ Sean Cleary EXECUTIVE MANAGER FINANCE, GOVERNANCE & SYSTEMS Sean is a finance specialist with over 30 years’ experience managing finances for commercial and Not-for-Profit organisations. He holds a Degree in Business and is a member of the IPA (Institute of Public Accountants). He has worked in a variety of Community Services sector organisations. He has experience in a wide range of corporate services responsibilities. Enhancing business efficiencies is a strength of Sean’s, achieving improvements through system implementation, coaching/developing finance teams and working closely with all stakeholders. Sean believes a strong and efficient ‘back of house’ service compliments and supports frontline workers enabling them to provide quality services to our clients. Meet our Team Acknowledgement of Country Acknowledgement of Country BCR Communities acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate their continuing culture, the world’s oldest living culture, and the contribution they make to the life of this region and our country. ​ 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 2021 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ANNUAL REPORT 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Annual Reports ANNUAL REPORTS

AGEING WELL HISTORY Carer Support At BCR Communities we understand that while caring for someone is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own health and wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR centre based respite BCR Communities offers a small day-centre respite group tailored specifically for people living with dementia. The group meets every Monday from 9.30am to 2.30pm at the BCR Communities Paradise Cottage located at 16 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point. ​ Our experienced staff provide care that is responsive and empathetic and aim to promote well-being with meaningful and fun activities. Morning tea and lunch is provided and clients feel supported in a comfortable and safe environment. BCR Carer Support Group BCR Communities Carer Support Group meets once a month on a Thursday afternoon for a cuppa and a chat. It is a relaxed and friendly environment where everybody has the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss challenges and support others. The meetings are currently held once a month at Paradise Cottage, 16 Sanctuary Point Road, from 1pm to 3pm . There is no cost and all carers are welcome. Upcoming Dates for 2024 : 23 May 20 June 18 July 15 August 26 September 24 October 21 November 19 December Other carer support Serviced by the Australian Government, the Carer Gateway provides emotional, practical and financial support for carers. Find out about counselling, tips and advice, peer support groups, financial help, coaching, emergency respite and other government support programs. 1800 422 737 Find out more Dementia Support Australia represents the 487,500 Australians living with dementia and their almost 1.6 million Australians carers. The website has resources, information, links to counselling, the latest research and events. There is also a free national dementia helpline which you can call any time. 1800 699 799 Find out more "I love my husband and want to care for him but as his dementia progresses, I’m spending more and more time at home alone with him. While my friends and family are sympathetic they really don’t understand what I’m going through like the other carers in the support group. It is so good to know that others are going through the same thing and get their advice and support. We also have a chat and a laugh together which helps." CARER SUPPORT GROUP MEMBER

OUR TEAM ALEX SMITH MAX JOHNSON RIVER WATTS

NDIS HISTORY NDIS Supports NDIS Work, Life & Training NDIS Respite

AGEING WELL HISTORY Short-Term Restorative Care Programs DO YOU NEED A HAND TO GET BACK ON YOUR FEET? If you are over 65 and have had an accident, injury or illness, a Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) program with BCR Communities can have you feeling like yourself again. Government funded through My Aged Care, the tailored program coordinates a team of specialists to help restore your health, strength and independence and prevent functional decline. Our experienced care experts will help you identify the areas you need support and what you would like to achieve. They will then find the relevant Allied Health specialists and create a program that is unique to you. Over eight weeks we will coordinate with these specialists to deliver the program in either the comfort of your own home or out in the community. What could my package include? Occupational therapy Physiotherapy Exercise physiology Social work Podiatry Daily living aids Home modification Dietary advice Optometry Registered Nursing Speech therapy Audiology Pharmacy Dental hygiene Osteopathy Psychology Assistance in the home like cooking, cleaning and personal care How long can I receive STRC for? You can receive short-term restorative care for periods up to eight weeks, twice in any 12 month period. Can I receive STRC if I already receive HCP or CHSP? You will not be eligible to receive short-term restorative care if you already receive a Home Care Package. You can still access the program if you receive support from CHSP but only if the services received from STRC are different and complimentary. "The STRC program with BBCR was absolutely wonderful, it included physiotherapy twice a week and an occupational therapist came to the house and gave me special equipment to use in the kitchen. It really made a difference to my overall mobility and well-being." JOSEPHINE