Liam McNally
GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Brimbank, Melton and Wyndham programs.
The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/or mental health challenges.
The groups meet fortnightly in each of the municipalities, and undertake activities such as barbeques, zoo visits, and arts and crafts sessions and more.
The meet-ups also often include guest speakers to present on topics like health and wellbeing, relationships, and safety.
GenWest Sunrise Social Group participant Pauline Herrmann said Sunrise makes her feel like it’s “always sunny”.
“Everything brightens up… more colours,” she said.
Sunrise Social Groups also have fortnightly online meetings, in which all of the western suburbs groups come together and share information, learn new skills from each other and link up with services across local areas.
Participant Michelle Henderson said Sunrise Social Groups helped her find a “new sense of life” and a “purpose to push on”.
“Sunrise has given me friendship, connection, a sense of community and belonging… The group has inspired me and pushed me to be a better version of myself,” she said.
“Because of a referral from Sunrise I am returning to study via Deakin University… Sunrise has made me rise above.
“I have been accepted for who I am and supported through my struggles for the first time ever.”
More information about the GenWest Sunrise Social Groups, including how to join, can be found on the GenWest website.
Details: genwest.org.au/what-we-do/health-wellbeing-programs/
