The SwanCare Centres Auxiliary – The Gift of Giving

If you have lived at SwanCare for any length of time, you have likely heard of the SwanCare Centres Auxiliary. You may have attended one of their guest speaker afternoons, taken a seat on a day trip to the Swan Valley, or admired the latest fashion parade in the auditorium. But while many know the name (or about the fun they get up to!), not everyone realises the vital role this dedicated committee plays in supporting our community.

A simple purpose with big impact

SwanCare Bentley Park resident Annette Lennerts has served as President of the Auxiliary for nearly three years. We caught up with her to shed some light on the group’s work.

“We are a simple fundraising group, with money raised going towards our four care centres.” explained Annette. 

While government funding covers standard operational costs, the Auxiliary Group supports the funding of specialised or extra items that fall outside the everyday budget. “A TV might break, or a resident might have become bedridden and need a pressurised mattress,” said Annette. “Or it might be the festive season, so we contribute items to help make the common rooms a bit more Christmassy."

Recently, the Auxiliary donated $1,500 to supply two specialised Occupational Therapy (OT) pressure-relieving cushions and a memory support doll. The cushions allow residents to trial expensive, OT-recommended comfort technology before committing to a purchase. 

Meanwhile, the life-like memory support doll provides immense comfort and a sense of calm for residents living with dementia.

Annette points out that all equipment must be sourced through specialized suppliers to meet strict government regulations: “Everything has to be a certain quality, it has to be durable, it has to be safe.” Past contributions have also included purchasing two specialised wheelchairs costing $1,500 each so that wheelchair-bound residents can join group outings on the bus.

Fun, friendship & fundraising

Pulling together regular events to engage participants and promote funding is no easy task and it’s a team effort. Annette and her 10-member-strong committee are strong advocates for making fundraising “fun and light-hearted” and to make sure everyone gets something back for their support.

“It’s a win-win situation,” Annette says. “It’s a chance to get together for fun and engaging social events, meet new people and raise money for a good cause at the same time.”

The Auxiliary offers a rich calendar of events throughout the year:

• Monthly meetings and guest speakers: For just a $10 annual membership (or $2 per meeting for non-members), attendees enjoy a fascinating variety of guest speakers. Meetings are followed by $1 tea or coffee and a raffle. What a bargain!
• Bi-Annual fashion parades: Highly popular with the ladies! Aside from the show, there are exclusive discounts and raffle vouchers from the shop.
• Day outings: From luncheons in Ravenswood to visits to the Swan Valley, Aboriginal art galleries, and even “The Blind Cameleer” camel farm in the Perth Hills, outings are open to all independent living and care residents.

By charging just a little bit more than the actual outing costs, the Auxiliary turns social connection into tangible support, raising a few thousand dollars each year.

Getting involved

With the Auxiliary’s AGM approaching in November, Annette will be stepping down after three fulfilling years at the helm. Reflecting on her time as President, she is grateful for her committee and the joy the group brings to the community.

“Doing something good for someone gives you a good feeling,” Annette says. “We could be standing on a street corner shaking a tin, but that’s not as fun! To see people come back from outings with smiles on their faces - it’s nice to know you’re helping do something good for someone.”

The SwanCare Centres Auxiliary warmly welcomes new members and volunteers. To find out about upcoming meetings, outings, or how to get involved, keep an eye on the community noticeboards or contact one of the friendly committee members.