Find ways to connect in Yarra
Looking to try a new activity, join an interest group, volunteer, meet people or get active? Yarra City Council’s new Community Activity Guide brings together local programs and activities for all ages, including many free and low-cost opportunities.
Yarra City Council’s new Community Activity Guide brings together local programs and activities for all ages, including many free and low-cost opportunities across libraries, neighbourhood houses, leisure centres, community gardens and more.
Loneliness Awareness Week
Loneliness Awareness Week runs from Monday 3 August to Sunday 9 August, highlighting the importance of creating opportunities for meaningful social connection.
This year’s theme, "Make room for connection," recognises the everyday ways people and organisations can help others feel welcome, included and connected.
Research undertaken by Yarra City Council [ PDF, 3.61 MB] found that loneliness is a common experience in Yarra, with around a third of residents experiencing loneliness. It affects people across different ages, life stages and circumstances. The research also found that people may want to try new activities but do not always know what is available, or may feel unsure about attending something new.
The Community Activity Guide is designed to make it easier to see what is available locally and help you take that first step to try something new.
Whether you are looking for something social, creative, active or practical, the guide includes information about:
volunteering opportunities
neighbourhood houses and learning centres
programs for families and children
activities for young people
carer walks
programs for older people
activities and programs for people with disability
Small steps can make a difference
Connection looks different for everyone. It might be trying a class or activity, having a chat at the library, volunteering, sharing a walk or visiting a community garden. You don't need to do everything at once. Trying one new activity or sharing the guide with a friend, neighbour or family member can be a practical way to make room for connection in Yarra.
There are also resources available such as tips for starting a conversation, signs that someone might be experiencing loneliness and how you can help someone feeling lonely.
Know someone who could benefit from getting involved locally? Share the Community Activity Guide and help make room for connection in Yarra.