There’s never a dull moment at Camden Community Centre.

The centre was established nearly 50 years ago and, on any given week, upwards of 600 people visit the centre to volunteer, attend social support groups, partake in exercise or art classes, browse through the op shop or receive support through Camden’s outreach program.

A team of 60 volunteers and eight staff support the delivery of the programs and initiatives that contribute to the Centre’s strong sense of community.

One such program is the Camden Men’s Shed, which Supervisor David Wass described as a place where men can get together, talk to one another and spend their time productively.

“Men come in from 9.30am and stay until early afternoon,” David said. “We work then share morning tea and lunch together, which is a good chance to talk and connect with each other before getting back into it.”

“We don’t go out looking for projects, instead people come to us through word of mouth,” David said. “All profits go back to the Men’s Shed to help pay for materials, maintain our machines and to the Centre to support the various programs that are being run.”

David stressed the importance of men coming together each week not only to work on projects, but to interact and build relationships.

Connections with others is a key pillar of the Camden Community Centre as Sally-anne Griffiths, Centre Coordinator, explained.

“As a community centre, we are very inclusive,” Sally-anne said. “No problem is too big and we never turn anyone away, so increasing and expanding our programs and the support we are able to provide has definitely helped build a strong community connection amongst those who both attend and volunteer at the centre.”

The Camden Community Centre’s Food and Wellbeing Outreach Program is another key way the centre strengthens its connection with the local community.

“Our outreach program started back in 2017 when people began presenting at the op shop asking for assistance with food relief,” Sally-anne said. “We approached a local bakery who offered to donate surplus supplies at the end of each day and the program has grown from there.

“We now work with and are supported by several businesses and organisations who donate a variety of food, personal care and household items that are collected and distributed by our team of 17 volunteers to over 600 people three times a week across four council areas - West Torrens, Holdfast Bay, Charles Sturt and Marion.”

“Most of the people we support through our outreach program are facing difficult circumstances in their daily lives,” she said. “Many are experiencing financial pressure, mental health challenges, or physical limitations that make everyday tasks harder. Some are elderly members of our community who may be living alone, while others are new residents to Australia who are still finding their footing and building support networks.

“Through our outreach deliveries, we aim not only to provide practical help, but also to show care, connection, and a sense of community to people who may otherwise feel isolated or overwhelmed. For some, the only people they see week to week are our volunteers delivering the food parcels.

“The success of the program is demonstrated by individuals who, after receiving support through the outreach program, choose to become volunteers at the centre. This progression highlights the program’s role in fostering community connection while strengthening participants’ confidence and sense of self-worth.”

Through its range of welcoming programs, dedicated volunteers and inclusive culture, the Camden Community Centre fosters a genuine sense of belonging and community connections.

Neighbourhood Watch is highlighting the work of groups and organisations like the Camden Community Centre, who are contributing to safe and more connected communities.

Research shows that neighbourhoods where residents are involved in community activities can result in lower crime rates. For more information, visit the Community and Crime Reduction page on the NHW website.