Colouring life with caring

February 28, 2008

Section: News

Usually Aunties and Uncles are all about helping children from disadvantaged families, but in April the group will be sharing their love with budding artists as well.

CareSouth’s Aunties and Uncles program, which helps children connect with volunteer families in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, has initiated a colouring in competition to raise awareness of the group and attract more volunteer ‘aunties and uncles’ to help out with the cause.

School students in the Illawarra can win one of 18 family fun days by getting their textas or pencils in gear and completing a colouring-in sheet.

Wollongong caseworker for CareSouth Lis Rust said the prizes are great, and the cause even greater.

“We hope that the competition will increase awareness of this fantastic program and encourage more families to volunteer to spend time with another child, for a weekend once a month,” she said.

“Entries close on the 30th of March and prize-winners will be announced on the 30th of March so the winners can enjoy their prizes in the April school holidays.

“Prizes include a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb for two people, family tickets to the Easter Show and much more.”

Aunties and Uncles links volunteers with children from two to 12 years old from families who are in need of a helping hand.

These surrogate ‘aunties and uncles’ provide friendship, support, role modelling, family respite and fun experiences to the families and their children.

Usually children stay with their volunteer family for one weekend each month.

CareSouth’s Aunties and Uncles Program Manager Clare Wilson said the program can make a big difference for those involved.

“Research has shown that a preventative program like Aunties and Uncles can alleviate the stress that many families face and that linking children with appropriate role models can contribute to children developing into well-adjusted adults,” she said.

“Anyone interested in joining the program can contact CareSouth on 1300 554 260.”