ConnectParent matches parents or parents-to-be with a trained volunteer community connector, who assists them to access the resources and support services available in Benalla.
The program, now in its third year, grew from community conversations at the Benalla Early Years Forum.
At the forum, the Benalla community identified a strong need to improve support for parents before a baby is born.
Tomorrow Today ConnectParent co-ordinator Rachael Heywood said volunteer connectors helped parents-to-be and new parents give their child the best start in life.
“We’re looking for people who have a caring and compassionate nature, are willing to learn new skills and are interested in supporting local families to thrive,” she said.
Volunteers do not need to be parents themselves, but ready to listen to new parents and help build their confidence in their own parenting style.
Connector Natalie Plum and participant Bec Clark were paired in late 2024, shortly after Bec arrived in Benalla.
“We don't have any family or friends here, so joining PEEP and then getting paired with somebody just to have that person, when I had nobody, that was really good,” Bec said.
They made a strong connection fairly quickly.
“After a little while I realised that our connection had become a normal friendship, we would be messaging each other about our day and how the kids are going,” Natalie said.
“Having children close in age meant we had lots in common.
“I think for other connectors, they had a different experience because the family they were connected with had different challenges, like language barriers or needing mental health support.”
Recently, their official connection reached an end when Bec’s son turned two, but they both encouraged others to get involved in the program.
In fact, Bec will be undertaking connector training in April so she can assist another new parent.
“I would be happy to be paired with someone who needs that extra support,” she said.
“I’m much more comfortable in Benalla now, and my experience with Nat has given me the confidence to feel that I could really help someone else.”
Community connectors will receive comprehensive training, with a particular focus on active listening.
The free training includes the Accidental Counsellor course and encompasses other skills needed to assist the family or individual they are paired with.
Community connectors receive regular contact from Tomorrow Today’s ConnectParent co-ordinator and can attend refresher training and debriefing with other connectors.
Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a community connector is encouraged to contact Rachael Heywood at Tomorrow Today on 5762 1211 or via rachaelheywood@tomorrowtoday.com.au.
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