June marks the end of the financial year, and draws us into discussions about budgets, funding agreements and whether we have delivered on our plans. Whilst all essential activities, it is important for us to always remember that these are means to an end -they enable us to deliver great supports that assist people to live good, connected, flourishing lives.
The personal recovery stories of Graham and Don in this month’s newsletter demonstrate why Flourish Australia exists. They highlight the impact of the relationships we form with people, the trust we build and the work we do together. It is always rewarding to hear feedback from people who report having a new perspective around hope and possibilities, of opportunities opening up for them, and the personal confidence building they experience as a result of accessing the right supports at the right time.
We all want to have a sense of belonging, and know there are people barracking for us and committed to helping us achieve our personal goals. Our family and friends are often the source of that encouragement – and I use the term family in its broadest meaning to include chosen family, knowing that sometimes people create their own “families” by connecting with others that give them a sense of mutual care and support.
The impact of that can be seen when we hear Don say, “I’m happier now than I’ve ever been and in a really good place in my life thanks to the great support network I have around me.”
And speaking of families, I invite you to read more about our Women and Children’s Program in the newsletter. This program is all about strengthening families, and ensuring Mums with a lived experience of a mental health issue can be great parents, and their children flourish. There’s even an opportunity there to directly support that program through a donation.
As we head towards 30 June, and endure the challenges of Winter, let’s remember how important our personal commitment to inclusion and connecting with friends, family and others important to us in our community is. Because, we know how life changing that can be.
Mark Orr AM
Chief Executive
