3 minute read
THREADING TOGETHER GENERATIONS
Making friends through craft
When the 2020 COVID pandemic struck and lockdowns were in place, people turned to craft as a way to pass their time, release their anxiety and be in-the-moment during great uncertainty.
Craft skills like knitting seemed to be the old-world panacea that many craved and as a result demand for The Nest Community’s preloved craft supplies and low-cost workshops escalated.
It was a time where many asked ‘what more can we do’ and as an organisation, we decided to take inspiration from The Craft Nest Project - the genesis of our organisation.
We were inspired to develop a free mentoring program based on intergenerational connection, to support vulnerable girls. Our aim was for girls to spend time in a welcoming space, connect with older women and learn hand making skills to improve their self confidence and resilience.
With a highly experienced, craft-loving team of volunteers and a local high school to partner with, the concept for a free mentoring program evolved.
The Nest successfully secured financial support from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation and the Exchange Project was launched in 2021 with Mt Maria College.
Once a week during term, 10 mentors hosted 6 girls in our Everton Park ‘home’ to deliver an experience that was akin to spending an afternoon at Grandma’s house.
Driven by the success of the pilot program we had the opportunity to partner with a second high school.
“Students who attend have flourished under the guidance of experienced mentors, honing their creative abilities and discovering new passions along the way” says Joanne Smith, Mitchelton State High School teacher.
When the organisation relocated to The Sheds, a large industrial space in Brendale, we were adamant that we needed to recreate a nurturing space Not only to continue the program, but also house our Heritage Collection of sewing memorabilia.
Fortunately, we were able to access a tenancy that adjoined the Haberdashery and the Gladys Mary Studio was officially opened in December 2023.
Through Moreton Bay City Council, we received a Community Activities Grant of $10,000. This combined with a $2000 donation from our long-term patron Tim Mander MP, the program was fully funded until October 2024.
In September 2024, women from the Zonta Club of Brisbane North approached us to sponsor the Exchange Project for two school terms.
The Zonta Club is a not-for-profit organisation committed to empowering women and girls through service and advocacy. As part of Zonta International, they work locally and globally to promote gender equality and improve the lives of women and girls. Zonta’s initiatives include education, health, economic empowerment, and ending gender-based violence.
We look forward to engaging more community partners to ensure this successful program continues into the future.
