The team has received a Southern Cross Care award for providing an innovative approach to its lifestyle program.
Facility and regional manager Amanda Cleary Schofield said it was one of 27 Southern Cross Care sites across NSW and the ACT considered for the award.
“It’s exciting recognition as we’ve been working on increasing the social connectedness of our residents with the community,” she said.
Ms Cleary Schofield said the $1000 award will be spent on a social outing for the staff.
“The staff here have worked so hard, especially after a hard few years where they’ve been through the gauntlet.
“We want to celebrate what they have achieved and put on a night for the staff, where everyone is sure to have a good time.”
Working alongside the lifestyle team is a group of volunteers known as the Friends of Orana Group.
Ms Clearly Schofield said Orana is recruiting more members for the group, and will host a free afternoon tea on Thursday, May 23, at 2pm, for anyone interested in learning more about how they can help.
The group is made up of people who can share their skills with residents, or who just have the time to help out.
You might be good at poetry, baking or craft, or may just have the time to offer some company to a resident or two.
“The afternoon tea is a chance to see what the community can provide Orana, and what Orana can provide the community.” Ms Cleary Schofield said.
Those attending the ‘expressions of interest’ morning tea who wish to register as a group volunteer will need to obtain police and working with vulnerable people checks. Orana will support you through this process.
For more information, contact the team at Orana at (03) 5881 2766.