It’s time to connect, collaborate and celebrate as Camden Council brings the community together for Social Inclusion Week.

Social Inclusion Week, celebrated between Saturday 19 and Sunday 27 November, aims to help all Australians feel included and valued, giving everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society.

Council will host a full program of events to build and strengthen relationships while addressing isolation, including:

• Youth Community BBQ at Julia Reserve Youth and Community Centre, Wednesday 23 November at 3pm;
• Rainbow Advocacy Youth Network - Big Yellow Umbrellas’ RAYN Group meeting at Julia Reserve Youth and Community Centre, Wednesday 23 November at 4pm;
• Paint the Town REaD Social Inclusion Week Children’s Book List, where you can purchase or borrow a book from Camden Libraries to start the conversation with a child about kindness, inclusion and acceptance;
• Inclusion resource kits, which encourages preschools, school groups, mothers’ groups and community to talk with children about recognising all abilities. Book packs available at Camden Libraries;
• Storytime sessions at Camden Libraries, which are regular Storytime sessions dedicated to inclusion and respect during Social Inclusion Week;
• Camden Women’s Coffee Club at Jack Nash Club House, Nash Place, Currans Hill Thursday 24 November at 6pm; and
• Diversity in Dementia workshop - A Camden Council partnership with Western Sydney University at Julia Reserve Youth and Community Centre, Thursday 24 November from 10am.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said it was important the community continued to build on their knowledge of social inclusion.

“Council is committed to helping each member of the community to feel valued and appreciated,” Cr Fedeli said.

“All of us have a place in this community and it is important that we provide residents with the opportunities to feel connected with each other.

“I encourage everyone to take part in our Social Inclusion Week program and if not, make a commitment of their own to help somebody else feel included whether it be at work, school or home.”