Local Penrith organisation, Our Community Cares, has been recognised with the prestigious Government of NSW Community Service Award at the Premier’s Volunteer Awards.

The ceremony was held at Meers Hall, Art Gallery of New South Wales, on Monday May 20, 2024, from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Nominated by Karen McKeown MP, the award was presented by Premier Chris Minns to Jordan Springs resident Kris Gauci, Co-Founder and Chair of Our Community Cares.

“This recognition means that Our Community Cares’ work is truly making a difference, and our meaningful results are being noticed and acknowledged publicly,” said Kris.

“Our dedicated team of amazing volunteers works tremendously hard on every project and initiative we identify as a worthy goal that will benefit our Penrith community.” “It also encourages valuable support and sponsorship for our upcoming projects and ongoing success as it reinforces our commitment to Penrith and how we work together with the community. It is wonderful to have all our hard work recognised.

”Highlighting the importance of volunteers in the local community, Kris said, “Our volunteers ensure we are able to reach out to the various demographic groups making up our community. Through volunteers, we hear of children in need in schools, and we are in direct contact with Nepean Hospital as to how we can help them. Our Connect program puts volunteers and local students in contact with the elderly in aged care facilities. We are approached to help the homeless and those in financial distress through churches and other community groups our volunteers are involved with.”

“Everyone is listening for opportunities to help. Our volunteers also have local contacts in business and commercial organisations who are able to sponsor and support our projects with products, services, and donations.”

Kris Gauci extended an invitation to the community: “We welcome anyone who is interested in joining Our Community Cares as a volunteer. Our volunteers participate in local activities, giving as many hours as they are able to; there is no set expectation. Meetings are held at Claremont Meadows Community Centre on the last Tuesday of each month.”

Contact Kris Gauci on 0403 197952 or send a message via the Our Community Cares Penrith page on Facebook.