Strong response to forum

Money-raising, good governance and unlocking the power of events were key discussion subjects at a Strengthening Communities Forum in Horsham.

The forum, at the Centre for Participation, included speakers Andrea Cross, Pablo Gimenez, Jemma Toohey and Centre for Participation chief executive Julie Pettett.

Centre staff members Robbie Millar and Munya Mugari also spoke about a wide range of topics during six workshops.

Topics included management committees and risk, grants and fundraising, money matters, recruiting and managing volunteers, community-led change and unlocking the power of events.

A panel discussion on the challenges facing our communities wrapped up the day.

Some people who attended the forum said they had initially taken part to expand their knowl- edge, learn about budgeting, and to learn how to relate to people.

Attendee Andrew George said he had been keen to improve his knowledge of how to run community groups.

“I gained a good mix of new information along with affirmation of my existing knowledge and practices,” he said.

Nhill Karen community representative Htoo said information about budgeting and finances would help the community, while Lyn Powell commented that she had learned ways to attract and retain young volunteers.

“I would recommend anybody from small organisations attend these training sessions in future; they’re very rewarding,” Horsham Camera Club treasurer Brian Finch said.

Ms Pettett said the community leaders travelled from as far as Stawell, St Arnaud, Donald and Kaniva to attend the forum.