Women’s Centre celebrates 30 years of service

Thirty years of work dedicated to supporting women will be celebrated at an open day at the Women’s Centre Rodney on November 16.

Centre manager Colleen Julian says the centre is excited to be celebrating this milestone in the same year as nationwide celebrations of 125 years of women’s suffrage and to be able to “acknowledge the strength of all women in our community”.

Colleen says with a mission of “Empowering, Informing and Supporting” women, the centre has become an established part of the Rodney community and continues to adapt as the region grows and develops.

The centre officially opened in 1988 in the Warkworth Town Hall building, then moved to Morpeth Street in 2012. It faced many challenges in its 30 years, including moving premises, attracting ongoing funding and working with the priorities of changing governments.

But by being adaptable and resilient, the centre is thriving in 2018 with a wide range of courses and services.

Women are encouraged to use the centre as a drop-in space, a place to find information, or somewhere that offers assistance with legal matters, counselling and advocacy.

Some of the courses offered over the 30 years include personal development groups, support for young mums, creative groups and many more.

To celebrate its 30th birthday, the Women’s Centre will be holding an open day at the centre with a light lunch and entertainment.

There will be a performance from members of the Pasifika Women’s Group and displays highlighting activities and services that have been undertaken over the last 30 years.

The open day runs from 11am to 2pm on Friday, November 16. Those interested in attending should call on 0800 237 674 or email info@womenscentrerodney.org.nz.