Jean encouraged members to attend the annual convention, which is on our doorstep in Canberra this year.

Ladies make sure you don’t miss out on this opportunity to meet other VIEW Club members from across Australia. The keynote speaker is well-known actor Noeline Brown.

Jean also highlighted the importance of VIEW Clubs working together with The Smith Family. This important work supports students from disadvantaged families to reach their full potential and break the intergenerational cycle of disadvantage.

Latest figures are that more than 700,000 children live in jobless households.

With over 21,000 members VIEW is a significant contributor in both funds and members time.

In our zone last year over $40,000 was raised. Crookwell VIEW continues to support 2 primary aged students as well as donating regularly to The Smith Family general funds.

This is all made possible by sharing a meal once a month and buying a raffle ticket!

Jean said that VIEW Clubs aim to empower women through the principles of having a ‘Voice’ looking after their ‘Interests’ and their ‘Education.’

All within a supportive and friendly network.

Jean said that students are supported from primary right through to tertiary studies. There are also parenting courses, assisting families before the child is born.

The range of programs is diverse. From the Let’s Read program targeted at sharing books with babies and toddlers, to on line tertiary mentoring.

There are also learning clubs, classes in financial literacy, tech packs to help with internet connection, refurbished computers, sports packs, money for school excursions and art workshops and much

more.

Sally Cullen thanked Jean for a most interesting talk.

And in other news.....

Five new members were presented with their badges. Welcome to VIEW - Joyce Edwards, Patricia Holmes, Trevine Maddox, Wilma Spackman and Dawn Cummins.

Members also discussed and voted on three resolutions to be taken to National Council.

Our next dinner meeting is August 24 when Elly Spark is the guest speaker.

Elly is a regular on ABC radio, reporting on the weather. Elly and her husband also own Kingsdale Winery.

Please phone apologies and guest names to Jan Macauley on 4832 0112 by Sunday evening August 22.