VIEW seeks more members

Warragul VIEW Club is seeking new committee members to continue its support of generations of disadvantaged students.

The club has been operating for more than 34 years, but a significant drop in membership has club members worried.

VIEW is an acronym for “Voice, Interests and Education of Women”.

There are almost 300 VIEW clubs across Australia, and all are part of the The Smith Family - a charitable organisation that supports children and families.

Aside from being a social group that come together for coffee and lunch outings, as well as other trips, Warragul and other VIEW clubs raise funds for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program.

Funds are raised through garage sales, functions, barbeques, and other activities.

Through the program, VIEW clubs sponsor children throughout their education, supporting the purchase of essentials like uniforms and school books.

Students also are connected with a Learning for Life program coordinator who supports them and links them to educational and mentoring programs that give students the support and tools they need to stay in school and break the cycle of disadvantage.

For local club members, helping students is a top priority - many are former school teachers and have seen the impact of financial struggles on students.

Recently, the club celebrated 34 years of operation, but members have concerns about its longevity.

Since the pandemic membership has dropped significantly, and finding members able to take on committee positions has proved challenging.

Like many service clubs, Warragul VIEW club has an ageing membership, and some members have been hesitant about driving at night and being exposed to COVID.

“We’d love new people,” club president Susan Collis said. “We need people happy to take on roles.”

Ms Collis said women of all ages and abilities were welcome to join the club.

Dinner meetings are held regularly on the fourth Wednesday of every month at The Black Tie. Members or prospective members arrive at 6pm for 6.30pm start.

Members need to book by the Sunday night prior – or SMS on the Monday morning to Linda on 0410 517058.

Anyone interested in joining the VIEW or finding out more can call secretary Helen Ryan on 0418 556942.

VIEW Club members zone councillor Wendy Walker, hostess Lynn Kennedy, publicity officer Kath Gribben, program officer Laraine Takle, president Susan Collis, secretary Helen Ryan, and assistant secretary Eileen Staple.