Siblings In The Spotlight

Siblings in the Spotlight

August 1st 2010

Freemasons representatives visited Interchange Outer East on Thursday 29th July, to mark the first anniversary of a three year commitment to fund Interchange's Sibling Support Program.

Interchange Outer East Behaviour Support Coordinator, Belinda Minett, and Services Team Leader, Sarah Wilson, presented research in understanding sibling issues and an update of the success over the past 12 months, to members of the Freemasons.

Interchange Outer East Executive Officer Fred Brumhead said, “It was important to share with Freemasons the value and necessity of supporting sibling programs.”

“The funding commitment provides us with a great opportunity to build the program and focus on financial sustainability to ensure that more siblings have access to these support programs in the future.”

The sibling program provides a safe and supportive environment for children aged 5-18, who have a brother or sister with a disability, to discuss their issues and concerns.

Sibling Support Coordinator Jess Van Arendonk said, “It is important to nurture the sibling relationship as this is often the longest lasting relationship a person with a disability will experience”.  

The funding is used to provide camps and afterschool programs that encourage siblings to share their thoughts, meet others in a similar situation and have fun.

Who are the freemasons?  www.freemasonsvic.net.au
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest existing fraternal organisation in the world.
It comprises an estimated 5 Million members world wide with 15 000 in Victoria.
Freemasons are strongly encouraged to be active in their community believing that the principles of co-operation, caring and trust can best be demonstrated by actions. This community involvement is reflected at the local level by Masonic involvement in community fairs and festivals, local schools and community centres and on a state-wide level through specific projects coordinated by the United Grand Lodge of Victoria.

Freemasons Victoria posted this article on their website to view it click here. For more information on the success of the project please check the supporters page.

by Rebecca Gallaher