Celebrating 75 years
Over the past two months, Carinity staff, service users and supporters from all over Queensland have had the opportunity to reflect on the real difference Carinity has made to the lives of those we are called to care for at a series of events celebrating the organisation’s 75th anniversary.
The marquee occasion on the calendar of festivities was an inspirational gathering of the Queensland Baptist community held at St Lucia in Brisbane.
Among the special guests in attendance were a number of long-serving Carinity staff – one of whom has worked for the organisation for 38 years.
Several current and former service users whose lives have been transformed with the support of Carinity were also in attendance. They included a former resident of the Carinity Orana accommodation for homeless youth, a disability service user, home care clients; and aged care and retirement village residents.
Function guests viewed a number of emotional video testimonials from people whose lives have been changed thanks to Carinity. These included Tereapii, a Carinity Education school graduate and Jasmine, a former prisoner supported by Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy.
The biggest cheer of the day, however, was reserved for the interview with Alec, a current resident of the Clifford House aged care community. Alec’s heartwarming story showcased his appreciation for the wonderful care he receives at Clifford House.
His video was met with a rousing round of applause that led the 87-year-old to rise to his feet and acknowledge the crowd with a hearty wave.
Also at the gathering were members of the Dart family, descendants of the generous pioneers who donated the land on which the Carinity Brookfield Green seniors’ community now sits, and relatives of Baptist campaigners who fought to establish Carinity’s first care home for the elderly.
Given Clifford House shares the 75th anniversary with the broader organisation, it was only fitting that our first community celebrated with a separate morning tea at their current location in Wooloowin.
Residents, family members and staff enjoyed live entertainment by students and creative arts teachers from the nearby Kedron State High School. Regular visitors to Clifford House, the students sung, played music and even performed some magic tricks for the residents.
A number of other anniversary celebrations have been held at Carinity sites around Queensland, including in our aged care and retirement communities; schools; and home care, youth and disability support services.
The anniversary has been a remarkable opportunity to reflect on the impact our organisation has had on so many members of the community.
We have been truly blessed by those who have gone before us, those who are with us now, and those who will continue our legacy of service well into the future.
Read more stories from Belong – Spring 2024
