Lauren’s passion to support Glasshouse
By Brooke Everiss
LOCALLY based Community Development Worker Lauren Barone, a familiar face in the Hinterland Community Development Program since its revival last year, operates out of the Caloundra Community Centre.
The non-profit organisation focuses on fostering local engagement and providing support networks. Lauren’s roots in a similar small country town in Victoria have instilled a strong attachment to Glasshouse Country.
“It feels quite similar to home,” she said. She said that her role is not service delivery but a relationship based on shared interests.
Her primary focus is collaborating with members and communities and creating solutions. “I love being able to support others,” she said. Lauren’s goal is to help people feel more connected and engaged in their local environment.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to work alongside individuals, local community groups and organisations to support them to come together over varying interests and ideas,” she said.
“Getting to know the community, learning about the diff erent groups, exploring the beautiful landscape and having a positive impact is very rewarding.”
She and her team collaborate with residents, local groups, and a variety of organisations, fostering shared interests and strengthening social bonds across the community.
Through these efforts, they have seen a significant increase in community engagement and a stronger sense of belonging among residents.
Lauren and her team engage in a diverse range of initiatives, from playgroups encouraging early childhood development to welfare and support networks providing crucial assistance to those in need.
This variety of activities offers something for everyone, making it an exciting time to get involved in the community.
For more information or to express interest in volunteering, getting involved, or forming a new group, contact Lauren on 0491 713 030 or email lauren@calcomm. Lauren at Neighbours Day 2024. org.au.