Abound Communities

Last newsletter of the year - with an uncanny-valley AI image just because I find it amusing. This is a little case study of adapting a tool for the needs of an #NFP client in developing #strategy, which -allowed thinking about both urgent and far horizon priorities -reduced hierarchy and silo-based thinking in a workshop with Board and Executive And it helped me inject the session with creative energy - because under my calm thoughtful facilitatorial (*) exterior, I was sizzling with the risk inherent in trying something new! Definitely one of my favourite clients of 2024, thank you Abound Communities and Katherine Burton. And credit to Frederic Etiemble and the team at Vibrance for their development and generous creative commons licensing of their Growth Model. *I know it’s not a word but it’s Christmastime, allow me a neologism.

This Christmas, you can make a house a home. For over 500 older Victorians, Abound Communities provides safe and affordable housing. Many of these residents come to us with little or no financial means. Our Urgent Need Fund ensures they have essentials like fridges, blankets, and clothing. But right now, the fund is critically low. You can help! Donate today and give someone the dignity of a stable, comfortable home this holiday season. Click here to donate: https://lnkd.in/gdXKHAgE

This Christmas, you can make a house a home. For over 500 older Victorians, Abound Communities provides safe and affordable housing. Many of these residents come to us with little or no financial means. Our Urgent Need Fund ensures they have essentials like fridges, blankets, and clothing. But right now, the fund is critically low. You can help! Donate today and give someone the dignity of a stable, comfortable home this holiday season. Click here to donate: https://lnkd.in/gdXKHAgE

Last night, we celebrated a significant milestone – the 155th Abound Communities Annual General Meeting. This year, our AGM included the launch of the Rushall Park History Exhibition, which has been carefully curated and organised by four dedicated and skilled Rushall Park residents. The exhibition reflects the rich heritage and vibrant stories of our communities, highlighting the spirit of connection and legacy that defines Abound, and previously OCAV. Abound Communities Board Chair, Philomena Horsley officially launched our Annual Report, showcasing the impactful work we've accomplished this year. Explore the Annual Report here: https://lnkd.in/gWBiA4KQ Thank you to all residents, staff, and supporters who make Abound Communities a place where people truly belong. Together, we’re building a brighter future for older Victorians. 

For some of our residents, finding stability has been nothing short of life-changing and their entry to Abound Communities often marks the end of a long, difficult journey. “I was looking for somewhere that I could live that was affordable and secure... I walked into my interview and thought, ‘Oh my God, where am I? This place is amazing.’ I was so fortunate to be accepted,” Annette says. Annette’s story is one shared by too many older Victorians. She spent years worrying about where she would find a safe, affordable place to call home, and after a long journey, she found it at Abound Communities. Traditional retirement village models often require a property to sell for the high “buy-in” cost, leaving many, especially single women, without options. At Abound Communities, we've pioneered a different model, offering affordable, secure housing to those who need it most. Your donations help us continue providing this unique pathway to stable housing. Each donation goes toward life-changing security for more residents like Annette. Please donate today: https://lnkd.in/gdXKHAgE

Ditch templates - Strategy is a conversation. I loved working with Abound Communities earlier this year. Resident workshops co-creating futures, then a Board strategy day including a fantastic hour of discussion with Tom Symondson Aged & Community Care Providers Association, led to a shared strategic path forwards for growing value. My favourite feedback from the Board was that the Value Growth model "...both released and contained our thinking in practical ways" 😃 Thank you to Board Chair Philomena Horsley and CEO Katherine Burton for bringing me in for this rewarding project. #Strategy #Facilitation

“I love the ‘magimix’ of people who make up the community and that it is a safe and happy place to live,” says Jo, a resident at Abound Communities. At Abound, we’re dedicated to providing older Australians with safe and affordable housing options. Through our unique model, we support many individuals, particularly those at risk of homelessness, to live independently in a caring community. Please donate today to support our mission and the people we care for: https://lnkd.in/gdXKHAgE

Recent media stories centered on the financial model of retirement villages in Australia have shone a light on the increasing financial pressures on older Australians seeking secure and affordable housing options. As our population ages, this challenge will only become more noticeable. Australia’s ageing population is growing rapidly. Today, 1 in 6 Australians are aged 65 and over, and by 2041, the number of people aged 85 and above is projected to more than doubleThis demographic shift is creating significant demand for affordable, safe housing solutions that support older people to age with dignity and independence. At Abound Communities, we recognise that the traditional retirement village model isn’t meeting the needs of many older Victorians, especially those facing financial vulnerability. Our unique approach ensures access to high-quality housing for those at risk of homelessness, particularly single older women, a demographic that is growing in number and need. By creating affordable, supportive living environments, we aim to ensure that our residents can thrive without financial burden. Our commitment to this mission remains steadfast, especially as Australia’s ageing population continues to grow and the demand for affordable retirement housing increases. As the landscape of retirement living evolves, we believe it is essential to keep the focus on the people who call our villages home. I invite you to learn more about how we are making a difference for older Victorians at risk, and how we’re working to create sustainable, community-driven solutions. Our model is only possible because of the generosity of philanthropic support from donations of land to funds to support the building and maintenance of these homes. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today to ensure the Abound Communities mission continues for future generations: https://lnkd.in/gQTtDZcZ

Abound Communities would like to congratulate both sides of the Australian government for reaching a bipartisan agreement on these important and necessary aged care reforms. Abound Communities support many of the proposed changes, and we look forward to further details once the Senate review has been completed.

In aged care, we witness firsthand the importance of connection and community. Whether it's our residents, staff, or volunteers, we all face challenges, both seen and unseen. At Abound Communities, we’re committed to creating a caring environment where everyone feels supported. A small act of kindness, like checking in with a colleague or resident, can make a world of difference to someone who may be struggling. We encourage everyone, especially those working in caregiving roles, to take a moment today to ask “R U OK?”. While R U OK? Day is a great reminder, asking “R U OK?” any day of the year encourages us to check in with eachother anytime, because meaningful conversations and support should never be limited to just one day. Let’s continue to work towards building compassionate and supportive communities in aged care, where no one feels alone. For tips on how to start these vital conversations, visit ruok.org.au.