melbourneit377

Thank you for 2025

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 06:56:15 GMT

One minute it was 1 January and the next, it's Christmas Eve! I probably say this a lot - where has the year gone?!

To you and our wonderful supporters - thank you! We might be a small organisation at the moment but it is you who keep us going. Whether you donated weekly, fortnightly or made a one off donation, you have allowed us to keep saying 'yes' where we can.

Support is more than financial and you have continued to show up in ways that contribute to the life of MCCWS. I particularly want to call out those who were able to attend our Comedy night. There is always a great energy when people can gather in person and it was no exception this year.

I also want to thank Jace, Adam and Sarah for their ongoing commitment, counsel, ideas and dedication to serve on the board. Thanks for seeing MCCWS through our 26th year.

On behalf of all at MCCWS, I wish you a wonderful Christmas. Whether you are working, spending it alone, or celebrating with family and friends, may the season be what you need it to be.

Thank you again for 2025. Until we meet again in 2026, take care!

Merry Christmas

Pj Dwyer

Laughs, Legends & A Whole Lotta Queer Joy!

Mon, 26 May 2025 09:12:30 GMT

A night of comedy, connection & unapologetic fun—because queer joy deserves a spotlight!

Get ready for belly laughs, unexpected snorts, and a room full of legends who know how to bring the good times. Whether you're a comedy fanatic, a casual chuckler, or just here for the vibes, this is YOUR night.

�� Saturday, 14 June 2025

�� Doors open at 7 PM

�� 96 Crystal Street, Petersham NSW 2049

�� Featuring a killer comedy lineup:

�� Dave Williams – Punchlines sharper than a fresh mullet trim.

�� Bec Melrose – Quick wit, queer joy, and a comedy style as iconic as Mardi Gras.

�� Daniel Towers – Bringing the big laughs with big Aussie energy.

�� Mat Wakefield – Fun, fabulous, and guaranteed to leave you in stitches (the good kind).

So, whether you’re rolling in with your chosen fam, your besties, or just keen to meet new mates over a night of pure fun—this is the place to be.

�� All identities, all orientations, all the laughs — book your spot now! ��

You’re invited

Sat, 17 May 2025 01:53:58 GMT

Hello

As cliched as this is, the older I get, the quicker time seems to fly! One minute I'm promoting our comedy fundraiser in 2024, the next we have passed 25 years in operation and onto the comedy night in 2025! That's right, a lot has happened in what feels like the blink of an eye.

This year there are two events, which I would like to personally invite you attend.

The first is our comedy fundraiser. This is the third time we have run each it so it could become an annual thing. Call me biased but nothing beats sitting in a room, surrounded by friends and new friends alike, chortling away as comedians tell joke after joke. Laughing is infectious and the more people around you laughing, the more you laugh. So don't just come along - invite your family and friends as well. Tickets are available at https://comedyforacause.net/event/MCC25/ .

The second event that is coming up is the 50th anniversary dinner of Metropolitan Community Church Sydney. You may or may not already know that MCC Welfare Services came about because of like-minded people who attended the church. They ran opportunity shops and programs back in the 1990s and by the end of that decade, they had formalised what we now know as MCC Welfare Services. When you book your ticket, select 'MCC Welfare Services' as your connection to this event. Tickets are available at https://www.trybooking.com/1383311 .

I do hope you can attend both events.

Kind Regards

Pj Dwyer
President

Christmas Day Lunch

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 04:27:29 GMT

We are once again partnering with Metropolitan Community Church Sydney to host a table for Christmas Day Lunch at Petersham RSL

What do expect

Enjoy a 2-course (entree and mains) or 3-course meal (entrée, mains and dessert).

Drinks can be purchased from the bar.

How much are tickets

2 Courses: $70 per person
3 Courses: $100 per person

RSVP

Bookings close: 11:59pm, 18 December 2022.

Sponsor someone

Want to help someone else attend Christmas Lunch? It's as simple as making a donation. Click the 'book now' button and then select the 'sponsor' ticket to enable the donation field. You can set the amount you would like to donate.

Need help to attend?
If you have need assistance covering the cost of lunch, drop me an email at contact@mccws.org.au

Take care

Pj

Thank you!

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 09:56:34 GMT

GiveOUT Day was a day where the focus was on funding LGBTIQA+ organisations because, as the image above illustrates, more than half of our organisations, do not have paid staff. Shining a spotlight on this fact, and growing the pot of gold under the rainbow, was really important - including for MCC Welfare Services.

It is with a heart full of gratitude that I am pleased to say we raised $475.00 in donations.

If you were able to donate, I sincerely say thank you.

This money will help us respond to assistance requests and save for our goal to employ a social worker / counsellor to help build social connection.

Again, I say thank you - for GiveOUT Day and for your continued support.

Today is GiveOUT Day

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:04:34 GMT

Before I talk further about this day, I wanted to share something that happened to me personally last week - well more to the point, what happened as a result.

Y ou may or may not know this but earlier this year I moved from Sydney to a regional city. Life has generally been really positive and has fed my soul, being surrounded by mountains and open blue skies. That all changed last week when something happened (the exact details don't matter) and the gloss came off.

F or days I was very much in shock. I didn't want to get out of bed and in fact stayed there for longer than I can ever remember doing. I just wanted to hide.

Y ou know what was interesting though? My experience of volunteering for MCCWS, reading and talking about loneliness, kicked in. My thought process kept me coming back to what I say regularly, its important to maintain connection to community. It was not easy but I did it. I made sure that each day I had something to look forward to doing. I went to a dinner group even though I had a nervous knot in my stomach that wouldn't release. I connected with family members and friends.

S o GiveOUT Day means a lot - to me, to MCC Welfare Services, and in fact to every other organisation who has a project to be funded.

G iveOUT Day was set up because LGBTIQ+ communities have access to less than 5c in every $100 of available resources. That's not even one percent!

Give OUT is matching donations for the first $1,500 raised. If we raise this amount, it will automatically become $3,000 - or 30% of our target^.

Can you donate?

If it's possible, could you make a donation? If you are able to, please use the following link to donate.

https://giveout.org.au/t/mccwelfareservices/

Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry?

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Sat, 08 Oct 2022 04:53:17 GMT

I have a favour to ask. Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry project with me for Give OUT Day?

GiveOUT Day is on Thursday, 20 October. It was set up because LGBTIQ+ communities have access to less than 50c in every $100 of available resources. That's not even one percent!

Over the coming weeks, people like you and me will team up to raise $10,000^.

Become a champion

Here is how you can help. Go to the champion sign up page, using the link below and create a profile. Be sure to tick that you are registering as a champion then search for 'MCC Welfare Services.'

https://www.giveout.org.au/championssignup

^We actually need $100,000 to get the project off the ground. We aim to raise this through grants, philanthropy and fundraising initiatives.

Offer to match donations

Give OUT is matching donations for the first $1,500 raised. If we raise this amount, it will automatically become $3,000 - or 30% of our target.

Simply donate

You can of course, make a donation. Just use the following link to donate.

https://giveout.org.au/t/mccwelfareservices/

Back in 2017 when I first started working on the project plan for the Rainbow Tapestry, I had this striking image go through my mind. Each one of us is a thread of yarn, being woven together. The output is a vibrant, colourful picture for all to see. The outcome is the fabric, that is society, is made all the stronger because of how we positioned in the picture.

This image still sticks with me in October 2022. In actual fact it drives every ounce of my being to help our Rainbow communities connect.

Looking forward to having you on the team!

Pj

Raffle winner announced

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 00:19:28 GMT

Please join us in congratulating Nic, who won our Friendship Day raffle.

We are sure Nic and their family and friends will have lots of fun learning how to play:

• Chinwag Cards

• Monopoly - Tamworth edition

• Scrabble Original

• Articulate

• Stupid Deaths

• Sequence

• Codenames

• 5 Second Rule Uncensored

• Stuff Happens

• Uno

• Five Crowns

The raffle was drawn at the end of our Comedy Night, 30 July.

Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket. Proceeds raised will help us deliver respond to assistance requests.

Comedy line-up announced

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 22:44:53 GMT

Jackie Loeb, David Smiedt, Alex Jae and Sam Bowden form the line-up for our Comedy for a Cause event.

Tickets available at https://comedyforacause.net/mccws

Doors open at 7pm.

If you cannot make the event, help us promote it by sharing this email, liking and sharing our posts on Facebook and Instagram or create your own social media post using the above link. Remember to include the hashtag #happyfriendshipday.

Win a games hamper

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 02:39:40 GMT

Win a games hamper, valued at $300, this International Friendship Day.

The hamper includes old favourites as well as new games to try. Filling the hamper are:
Chinwag Cards
Monopoly - Tamworth edition
Scrabble Original
Articulate
Stupid Deaths
Sequence
Codenames
5 Second Rule Uncensored
Stuff Happens
Uno
Five Crowns

Tickets are priced at $2 each, 3 tickets for $6 , 5 tickets for $10 , 8 tickets for $15 , 12 tickets for $20 , 20 tickets for $30 , 35 tickets for $50.

The winner will be announced on 30 July at the end of our Comedy Night.

The raffle is open to residents in NSW, Northern Territory and Tasmania only.

Raffle tickets can be purchased via: https://rafflelink.com.au/ifd2022 .

Celebrate friendship with comedy

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 02:28:11 GMT

Comedy For A Cause presents a showcase of some of the best comedians from the Sydney and Melbourne International Comedy Festival in support of MCC Welfare Services.

Corral your favourite fans for a night of fun and frippery - it's International Friendship Day after all! Buck the trend that, since the pandemic, no one wants to hang out in person anymore.

Join us at Comedy for a Cause on Saturday, 30 July to celebrate International Friendship Day.

Secure your tickets today at: https://comedyforacause.net/mccws .

Christmas Day Lunch

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 02:04:06 GMT

Looking to be with others on Christmas Day? Come, join us at Petersham RSL. MCC Welfare Services is organising a table for Christmas Day Lunch. There is no need to be alone Christmas Day. Friends are welcome.

What do expect

Enjoy a 3-course meal (entrée, mains and dessert) from the Bistro menu. Children's, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free means are available. You order on the day.

Music will be provided by Ron Ashton.

Drinks can be purchased from the bar.

How much are tickets

Members: $80 per person - membership number required to book
Visitors: $90 per person

RSVP

Bookings close: 19 December 2021.

Sponsor or be sponsored

Want to help someone else attend Christmas Lunch? It's as simple as making a donation. Click the 'book now' button and then select the 'sponsor' ticket to enable the donation field. You can set the amount you would like to donate.

If you have need assistance covering the cost of lunch, email contact@mccws.org.au

Short Story Competition closes this Friday

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 21:19:33 GMT

Entries close this Friday, 5 November 2021 at 11:59pm AEDST for our inaugural short story competition. There is still time to enter!

Choose your theme from either Thread 1 (COVID Lockdown) or Thread 2 (A Connected Life) and write up to 800 words. Stories must be original and can be fiction or non-fiction. Enter as many times as you like. $20 per entry.

First prize in each category is $300 and second prize is $150.

Please refer to the Terms and Conditions as well as the FAQs, which can be found at www.mccws.org.au/rainbow-tapestry .

Get those creative juices flowing!

Pj

Thank you for raising $2,800

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 07:55:05 GMT

GiveOUT Day has ended for another year.

The thing I like about endings is that they cause me to stop for a minute and reflect on what was achieved. Here is just some of what you and I did over the past 6-8 weeks:

Raised $2,800* (or 28%) of our fundraising goal for this campaign

Increased our Facebook followers by 10%

Increased our Instagram followers by nearly 19 %

*This includes donations raised by Champions, matched funding through GiveOUT and offline donations.

Thank you!

I also want to take this opportunity to say a special thank you to David Williams OAM and Adam Clayton . David and Adam joined with me as Champions of the Rainbow Tapestry project. This meant they each created a profile and engaged with their networks.

David and Adam - thank you for being Champions!

Whatever you have planned for this weekend, I hope it is filled connecting with others.

Take care

Short story competition opens this Friday

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 02:02:24 GMT

Entries open this Friday, 1 October 2021 for our inaugural short story competition.

Choose your theme from either Thread 1 (COVID Lockdown) or Thread 2 (A Connected Life) and write up to 800 words.
Stories must be original and can be fiction or non-fiction. Enter as many times as you like. $20 per entry.

First prize in each category is $300 and second prize is $150.

Competition closes 5 November 2021 at 11:59pm. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions as well as the FAQs before applying on our Rainbow Tapestry webpag

Sharing Our Stories

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 08:01:21 GMT

Stories have been on my mind a bit this week. One of our members shared with me a concept called the Human Library. You go to library and borrow a real-life human for 30 minutes to learn about an aspect of their life. What would we learn from you?

Queerscreen's Film Fest is also full of stories. Last night I watched Tove - the story about Tove Jansson who created the Moomin series. Tove's story resonates with me. She never wanted to illustrate, she wanted to paint. I thought my life would go in one direction and its ended up going in a completely different direction.

The film fest has inspired the theme for Saturday night's catch up. We are going to explore the movies that have touched our lives. If you are interested, please get in contact so I can ensure you get the link.

Loneliness: The Hidden Pandemic

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 08:21:19 GMT

Pj attended a webinar on Friday night, 3rd September, which explored issues around loneliness. There were many takeaways for me and the one we want to call out is this.

Loneliness is a normal feeling. This is often referred to as episodic loneliness. Chronic loneliness is the other end of the spectrum. Simply linking an individual to a group doesn't help. It's really important to know the person and make sure they are linked to the right group.

This is why GiveOUT Day and funding the social worker position is really important. We really do need to take a person-centred, long-term approach.

I do hope you can join us in raising awareness and funds during GiveOUT Day.

Meet the 2021-22 Board

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 08:31:38 GMT

On Saturday, 4 September 2021, we held our AGM and elected the Board for the coming year. Positions filled are:

President - Pj*

Secretary - Sarah

Members - Adam and JC

We are all excited to continue building on what we achieved last year.

*Pj will take on the bookkeeping function while we actively try to find our next treasurer. If you know of anyone with the skills and ability to do this role, please drop us a line

Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry?

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 08:29:48 GMT

I have a favour to ask. Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry project with me for Give OUT Day?

Give OUT Day is on Friday, 15 October. It was set up because LGBTIQ+ communities have access to less than 50c in every $100 of available resources. That's not even one percent!

Over the next 8 weeks or so, people like you and me will team up to raise $10,000^.

Become a champion

Here is how you can help. Go to the champion sign up page, using the link below and create a profile. Be sure to tick that you are registering as a champion then search for 'Rainbow Tapestry Project.'

https://www.giveout.org.au/championssignup

Offer to match donations

Give OUT is matching donations for the first $1,000 raised. If we raise this amount, it will automatically become $2,000 - or 20% of our target.

You can also offer funds for matching. Simply reply to this email so we can work out the finer details.

Simply donate

You can of course, make a donation. Just use the following link to donate.

https://www.giveout.org.au/t/rainbowtapestryproject

Back in 2017 when I first started working on the project plan for the Rainbow Tapestry, I had this striking image go through my mind. Each one of us is a thread of yarn, being woven together. The output is a vibrant, colourful picture for all to see. The outcome is the fabric, that is society, is made all the stronger because of how we positioned in the picture.

This image still sticks with me in August 2021. In actual fact it drives every ounce of my being to help our Rainbow communities connect.

Looking forward to having you on the team!

^We actually need $100,000 to get the project off the ground. We aim to raise this through grants, philanthropy and fundraising initiatives.

23.8% Often Don't Have Anyone To Talk To

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 08:32:39 GMT

We are holding another survey to gain insights into loneliness.

If you haven't done so already, we invite you to click on the link below and spend the next 5 or so minutes answering some questions. This survey is completely anonymous - we are not collecting personal contact information.

Link to survey

https://forms.gle/xHwq57eRobXnr2Mr8

In the meantime, we want to share with you one insight from the responses so far: 23.8% often don't have anyone to talk to. If this is correct, that means that nearly 1 in 4 people have no regular contact with others.

You can help us understand this more by also sharing the above link on your social media accounts.

In for the long haul

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 07:54:23 GMT

According to Facebook, in 2011 I penned this: sometimes in life we need to venture out on our own in order to share the journey with others.

I mention this because according to another data source - Mailchimp - half a year has passed since I last wrote to you. It's understandable if you ask why such a long break between drinks.

There have been two significant things occupying our time at MCC Welfare Services: supporting people and reworking the Rainbow Tapestry project into a 5-year project.

To our regular and semi-regular donors, thank you! Your ongoing support has enabled us to assist people with housing, put food on the table, access medication and connect with others - either in person or via their phones. We are a very small organisation and we do what we can within the means available to us. Thank you for helping to remove barriers that prevent people from connecting.

As I experience life, I have more and more clarity that we are on the right path. Loneliness is going to be the next major social impact that will affect Australians - especially as we come to terms with the social and economic repercussions of COVID-19.

Documentaries including Older People's Home for 4 Year Olds (ABC), Rosemary's Way and See What You Made Me Do (SBS) seek to unpack isolation and loneliness. Characteristics common to the stories include:

• limited contact with others

• living alone or spending significant amounts of time alone

• a desire to connect however barriers are imposed by self or others

It is for this reason, we have reworked the Rainbow Tapestry project from 2018, into a 5-year project. The project aims to respond to the COVID-19 Pandemic by connecting with LGBTIQA+ individuals to reduce social isolation through a service continuum model delivered by a qualified counsellor/social worker. The service continuum moves people from socially isolated to socially connected.

First though, we need seed funding to get the project off the ground. You can help by becoming a member, purchasing merchandise, making a one-off donation or setting up a regular direct debit.

Will you join with me for the long haul?

How are you?

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 07:46:18 GMT

How are you? How are you coping with social distancing? Has your outlook changed now that the restrictions are starting to lift?

Maybe you are like me where it changes day to day? I find that I spend more time in front of a computer screen than I have ever done. Some days, particularly when there are lots of online meetings, I end up having a nap late in the afternoon. I also find that I have less energy to work through my to do list.

On the upside, I am back running again - well its more a walk/run combination. It's been lots of fun to put some music on and enjoy the 7km circuit at different times of the day.

On the crazy side, in the early days I started having food cravings. One of the first was Anzac biscuits! Let's just say I quickly cured that one when I had to eat the whole packet over a number of days.

This week marks National Volunteers Week. I like when this week rolls around each year. It reminds me to take a moment and be grateful for the many people who have contributed in a myriad of ways to our organisation.

Scroll down for some updates and ways to get involved. I encourage you to live out our values by engaging in connection, showing a little kindness and sharing a lot of joy.

Until next time, take care.

Complete our questionnaire

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 07:42:49 GMT

MCC Welfare Services' vision is that no one should ever die lonely.

To help us understand loneliness a little more, and particularly the impact of COVID19, we are conducting a questionnaire using the UCLA Loneliness Scale. The #questionnaire takes approximately 3-5 minutes.

Thank you for taking the time to help us gain insights into loneliness.

https://tinyurl.com/mccwssurveyMay

Become a volunteer

Wed, 20 May 2020 05:24:43 GMT

It's National Volunteer Week. Have you ever thought of volunteering for MCC Welfare Services? We have a range of ways that you can contribute. Here are some ideas:

You could

· host a one-off (cyber) gathering to connect with others.

· host a fundraiser with family and friends to help reduce loneliness.

· contribute stories about connection for our newsletter.

· roll your sleeves up and help us develop programs and resources.

· even consider joining our Board and/or being our Treasurer.

House of Welcome

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 01:14:15 GMT

Our purpose is to partner with communities to remind people that they are not alone. For the month of March, we are teaming up with the people from Metropolitan Community Church Sydney to help stock the food pantry at House of Welcome.

Will you partner with us by contributing some items? Scroll down to find a list of items that House of Welcome get regularly asked for.

Goods can be dropped off at 96 Crystal Street, Petersham on Sundays 8, 15, 22 and 29 March. MCC Sydney's service times are 10am and 6:30pm so before or after works well.

Alternatively, you can deposit money into our bank account or PayPal and we will shop on your behalf. Use 'Food Drive' as the reference.

If neither of the above work for you, drop us a line at contact@mccws.org.au and let's see what other ways you can contribute.

The following items are regularly requested and can be freely donated:

Cooking Oil
Basmati rice
Flour/Sugar
Long life (UHT) milk
Canned Tomatoes / Chick Peas / Lentils
Canned fruit
Tinned fish (tuna in oil)
Instant noodles
Tea & Coffee
Cooking Spices
Jams & Honey
Breakfast cereal
Biscuits (savoury and sweet)

Please do not donate baked beans, soup, beetroot or tinned spaghetti. All food items should be shelf stable and within their best before or use by date.

The following non-food items are also requested:

Shampoo/Conditioner
Laundry detergent
Dishwashing liquid
Razors/Shaving foam
Sanitary Pads (no tampons)
Toothbrushes/Toothpaste
Toilet paper/Tissues
Nappies (larger sizes)
Baby Wipes
Deodorant
Household cleaning items - tea towels, dishcloths, sponges

Visit us at Fair Day

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 01:25:13 GMT

February has arrived and that can only mean one thing: Mardi Gras!

This Sunday, 16 February, we will have a stall at Fair Day stall where you can:

• Buy Chinwag cards and candles
• Complete a paper copy of the Loneliness survey
• Find out more about us, including volunteer opportunities

We are located in Zone C at Stall number 30. The easiest way to find us is opposite the Medical tent.

Oh in case you don't know about Fair Day, it will be held at Victoria Park, Camperdown.
The day starts at 10am and goes through until early evening.

Happy Mardi Gras!

Launch of Loneliness survey

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 01:15:56 GMT

To help us understand loneliness a little more, we are conducting a questionnaire using the UCLA Loneliness Scale.
The UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3) is a 20-item measure that assesses how often a person feels disconnected from others.
The questionnaire takes approximately 3-5 minutes. Use the link above to complete the survey.

At the conclusion of the questionnaire, there are three (3) demographic questions: gender identity, sexual identity and age.

The survey is open until 8 March 2020
https://tinyurl.com/mccwssurvey

Reflections on January 2020

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 01:06:22 GMT

While a lot of Australia was dealing with drought and bushfires,
I went to Melbourne to attend the Better Together Conference.
This conference brings together individuals from the Rainbow Communities and "aims to explore current issues facing the LGBTIQ+ movement, bringing together voices from indigenous communities, people with a disability, the Deaf community, as well as multicultural and multi-faith communities." It is really special to be around so many committed and talents individuals.

One of the clear messages I heard over and over again went something like "we want a seat at the table". This really challenged me as one of the values I have tried to uphold is that of inclusion. I am proud that our board is equal (in terms of the binary split male/female). There is always room for improvement though. We will be looking for some additional board members in the coming months so please touch base if you think you can serve. The board meets quarterly.

After the conference, I was scrolling through Twitter. Someone had posted that protestors had disrupted a story telling session at a library in Brisbane, where drag queens were reading to children. When social media erupts over an event, I sit back and wait. It's important for me to have an informed opinion before I comment.

The next day I heard the news that the person who had led the protest had taken their life. As it turned out,
the leader of the protest, Wilson Gavin, was gay.

I do not profess to know why Mr Gavin took his life nor why he felt called to lead a protest in front of children.

What I do know is that even the darkest moments of our life pass. It is in these moments that maintaining connection to family, family of choice or friends is really important. When we are seek these people out, they help by listening to us and providing different perspectives on situations.

What I also continue to observe is that reaching people who are isolated (in thought or geographically) is very difficult. The socially isolated don't move around with flashing neon lights. It takes each one of us to look through our networks and check in on people. That requires active participation.

My hope for Mr Gavin is that he rests in peace.

At the end of January I returned to Melbourne to attend the Metropolitan Community Church Network Gathering. This event brings together the MCCs in Australia & Aotearoa/New Zealand for a weekend of fellowship and learning.

Some of us spent Friday learning about two services that operate in Melbourne.

We first visited the Positive Living Centre, which supports people living with HIV. They offer a wide range of services including a food pantry, art and computer classes as well as a weekly lunch and dinner. They also have caseworkers available to support people who are diagnosed with HIV.

The PLC showed me what is possible for MCC Welfare Services. I would love for us to have something similar - a place where people could wander in, have a cuppa and then learn (or brush up on) conversation skills. We could also connect people with any services or supports they might need.

Our vision is set. We can dream dreams. This chapter is about to be written. What part will you play?

Vision, Purpose and Values

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 00:41:56 GMT

You will probably be aware that we have been on a path to work out what is next. Part of that work has been to set the direction of the MCC Welfare Services. Recently, the Board approved our vision and purpose statements and agreed to three values. I am pleased to share them with you:

Vision Statement

No-one should ever die lonely

Purpose Statement

We partner with communities to remind people that they are not alone

Values

Engage | Kindness | Enjoy

Over the next little while, we will start unpacking what the values look like in our organisation. In the meantime, we welcome your feedback so please get in touch to share your thoughts.

No one should ever die lonely.

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 15:02:08 GMT

Let’s face it – at some point we are all going to kick the bucket. It’s a given. What happens before this is not a given.

In a world of being digitally connected, people are feeling more isolated than ever. In 2016, Lifeline reported that 8 out of 10 Australian said that loneliness was increasing 1 . In 2018, 1 in 4 Australians described themselves as feeling lonely 2 .

That’s why we need your help.

Not ready to face your own mortality? Neither are we! We are passionate about connecting communities and connecting you with our community. We recognise that each day is a gift and should be celebrated!

“Social connectedness is the degree to which people engage and interact with others. It can occur at the individual level, emphasising the quality and quantity of connections amongst an individual with others in their social circle. It can also occur at the community level where it relates to the level of connection one has with their community.

Spark us on!

Be a one-hit wonder by donating a one-off amount. It’s simple. 100 amounts starting at $3. Only one available per amount.
Select the amount...and a chair (just for fun)
Make the payment
Print off your receipt
Funds raised will go to our events and projects which fosters social connection in the LGBTIQ communities of the Inner West through weekly events.

Vivid Pride 2019 On Sale

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 22:10:30 GMT

Tickets are now on sale for MCC Welfare Services' Vivid Pride Harbour Cruise. To book go to our Rainbow Tapestry page or copy this link: www.trybooking.com/489911 More details below:

ABOUT

A different tapestry descends on Sydney this June. Avoid the crowds on land and join Vagabond Cruise to experience Vivid Sydney 2019 from the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. Embark on a mystical journey complemented with a freshly prepared cocktail buffet dinner. Witness some of the world's most iconic landmarks being transformed by genius 3D laser shows! Any proceeds raised will go to the Rainbow Tapestry Project and the work of MCC Welfare Services Inc.

COST

Adults - $59 per person
Concession - $49 per person
Children 5-14 yo - $39 per child

TIME

Cruise 2: 7.15pm to 8.45pm (Boarding 7.00pm)

Disembarks and returns from Man O' War Steps - East Jetty in Circular Quay.

Please arrive by 6:45pm and remember, the boat will not wait!

VIVID SYDNEY 2019 CRUISE INCLUSIONS:
• 1.5 hour Vivid Festival dinner cruise
• Witness Sydney's iconic landmarks transformed by Vivid light shows
• Spacious indoor and outdoor viewing decks
• Indoor unreserved seating but everyone is guaranteed a seat
• Delicious cocktail dinner selection, buffet style
• Cash bar for beverages
• Tea, coffee and chocolates
• Background music
• Longest cruising route of Sydney Harbour
• Excellent photo opportunities of Vivid
• A dedicated Cruise Director to ensure that you'll have a great time!

VIVID SYDNEY 2019 COCKTAIL DINNER, BUFFET STYLE:
• (GF) Enticing beef balls with basil served with traditional BBQ dipping Sauce
• (V) Crispy Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Sweet Chilli dipping sauce
• (V) Traditional Greek Spanakopites- delicious spinach and ricotta cheese pastries
• Crispy Fish Fillets
• (GF) Skewered marinated chicken pieces served with tzatziki
• (V) Vine ripened tomato and basil bruschetta

FOLLOWED BY
• Freshly percolated Coffee & Herbal Teas
• (V) Vagabond Chocolates

Cocktail dinner, buffet style service with some Gluten Free (GF) and Vegetarian (V) options, no variations to the menu will be accepted.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Unfortunately we are not able to wait for late arrivals. No refunds will be given if you miss the boat. Due to increased traffic and crowds anticipated for Vivid we recommend that you plan your journey in advance and allow for delays.

Save the date - 20th anniversary

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 22:29:40 GMT

In October 2019, MCC Welfare Services will have been serving the Rainbow Communities for 20 years.

We actually started well before 1999 with our opportunity shop, Out of the Closest Emporium. In October 2019, MCC Welfare Services will have been serving the Rainbow Communities for 20 years. We actually started well before 1999 with our opportunity shop, Out of the Closest Emporium.

Join us on Saturday, 12 October 2019 to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. More details will be announced in the coming months.

In the meantime, if you have any stories or photos, get in contact with us. We would love to hear from you! Send them to contact@mccws.org.au

Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 22:41:34 GMT

When I think of the Rainbow Tapestry Project the images are like a carrousel starting from the job interview to the last event "Saving food and money at the kitchen".

All these images have something in common: the wish felt by everyone (myself included) to build community in our diversity and connect with people in a real way.

I go to my hometown on Christmas feeling that I have fulfilled these desires through the events that I have been running week after week.

By looking back at the job done over the last eight months, I am able to see the seed that I have planted, a place/space where everyone has been encouraged to speak their mind and share with others there personal universes. I leave this period with the Rainbow Tapestry Project, with the joy of having brought people together and I hope that others, like me, not only have grown by participating in the events but also have been able to add more phone numbers to their list.

I want to thank you some of the key persons who have supported the Rainbow Tapestry Project in different ways, starting with the visionary Pj and the rest of board members of the MCCWS and continuing with the endless generosity from Lee and the thorough Brad.

Finally, a big thank you for all the participants the varied participants who had engaged the different events. You have made real the name of the project: knitting colourful threats of people like a tapestry.

Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou. Merry Christmas and a great new year.

Claudia Turro

Candles lit and extinguished

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 22:41:31 GMT

Sometimes in life, people enter and exit almost as quickly as a tropical downpour of rain. They make such an impact that in the final moments, we don't realise that the end is nigh. Or maybe we do and just don't want to admit it?

The Rainbow Tapestry Project started out as an idea, a dream, a vision for a better tomorrow. We put pen to paper and before we knew it, Claudia was going to make significant inroads into bringing the Rainbow Tapestry project to life.

We set it up as a project intentionally. We didn't know what tomorrow held, so we put a time limit on it. This decision was partly because of funding. We stepped forward together. We persevered. We saw people come from nowhere and leave having made at least a new acquaintance.

I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved. Really though, we could not have done this if it wasn't for you. Whether you attended one or more of our events, joined the regular giving program, became a member, brought a candle, gave a donation or shared one of our events, you have started weaving the beautiful, vibrant Rainbow Tapestry that we dreamed of. Thank you.

For me personally, I will miss Claudia (but don't tell her that!). I often joke that I would like to clone myself so I can get more done. In Claudia I found another version of myself.

Part of my role as President is to inspire others. Today though, I need to acknowledge the human side of me and sit with the sense of loss that I feel. A year ago, I could not say what 2018 looked like. Today I am in a similar position when I look to 2019. The difference though is that I have grown and changed. This growth and change has only happened because of the Rainbow Tapestry project and Claudia's efforts to bring it to life.

For all of this I am extremely grateful.

Pj Dwyer
President

AGM 15 October

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 19 Sep 2018 00:21:49 GMT

This is to advise you of the upcoming annual general meeting of the members of MCC Welfare Services Incorporated. The details of this meeting are as follows:

Date: Monday, 15 October 2018

Time: 6:30pm

Place: 96 Crystal Street, Petersham NSW 2049

An agenda and minutes of the previous meeting will be sent in accordance with our constitution, 15 days prior to the meeting.

In the meantime, you can renew your membership or apply to become a member using this link: www.trybooking.com/424599

Membership is $3.00 per year and entitles you to vote at meetings as well as serve on the Board.

Your sincerely

Jace Clements
Secretary

We've been Indeqx!

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 04:09:14 GMT

Indeqx is an online directory listing LGBTIQA+ community organisations and services in Australia.

From support groups to creative projects, legal services to sporting clubs, indeqx lists all groups without ranking or judgement, in an easy-to-navigate directory to empower rainbow communities to find their people and get support.

The Elephant in the Room

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 07:43:27 GMT

The easiest way to say this is straight up: MCC Welfare Services is not a church. We do not advance religion. Our mandate is to build communities that are socially connected.

We have never shied away from the fact that our organisation was founded by people who attended Metropolitan Community Church back in the 1990s. We owe a debt of gratitude to each individual who came together to form our organisation. They stepped up at a time when many in the community were shunning and disowning people who had contracted the AIDS virus.

Fast forward to today, our organisation has had to change. No longer are we running second-hand shops and providing furniture to people in the same capacity we once were. We are still connecting with individuals though. That's how the Rainbow Tapestry project came about.

The last 2 years have been spent building our web presence and researching the needs of the communities we live in. Research is showing that, despite technology, people are feeling less connected. They are not only feeling it, they are telling me when I talk about the project. The Rainbow Tapestry project aims to address this.

So what happens at the Rainbow Tapestry events? Well it's simply a case of turning up to the event of the day and participating at a level you feel comfortable. We emphasise connection and fun. Looking at the events that Claudia has put together so far, all of them do just this.

There are no ulterior motives.

I hope you can make one or more of our events.

Pj Dwyer
President

Rainbow Tapestry Launch/Fundraiser

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 01:40:31 GMT

Dolly Parton sings a song about a coat of many colours that her Mum made for her. The coat was sewed with love. We want you to bring your love and help us launch the Rainbow Tapestry Project! Proceeds from the ticket sales will go towards the Tapestry project and the work of MCC Welfare Services.

The entertainment line-up so far includes:

Denise Hanlon
2Pauls

Joining us also is the Mayor of the Inner West Council, Darcy Byrne, to formally launch the Rainbow Tapestry project.

Tickets are on sale now at www.trybooking.com/354099

Don't miss out!

Mardi Gras Fair Day

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 01:36:54 GMT

A few days after Feel the Love, Jace and Pj ventured to Fair Day. If you haven't been to Fair Day, this is Mardi Gras' free family-friendly carnival of rainbow festivities. It is similar to Feel the Love, just a little bigger. About 70,000 of your closest friends descend into Victoria Park at Camperdown.

Fair Day was another opportunity to promote the Rainbow Tapestry Project. Thanks to everyone who stopped by for a chat and to find out more.

Community Engagement Officer joins MCCWS

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 01:34:34 GMT

MCC Welfare Services has recruited Claudia Turro Ortega to the position of Community Engagement Officer and will lead the Rainbow Tapestry project.

Claudia brings with her a wealth of international experience in community engagement. She has worked in Spain, Chile, Ghana, and the Philippines with diverse social groups including women, youth, families, community and social leaders.

"Claudia's appointment comes after a competitive recruitment process. We were fortunate to have received numerous quality applications. This made our task very difficult. We are excited though, to welcome Claudia to MCC Welfare Services," said Pj Dwyer, the organisation's president.

The Rainbow Tapestry project will showcase the Inner West LGA by offering week-day events and is partly funded by NSW Government through the Stronger Communities Fund.

$19k kickstarts Rainbow Tapestry Project

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 07:18:01 GMT

MCC Welfare Services secures $19k to kick-start the Rainbow Tapestry project during the recent Stronger Communities grant round administered by the Inner West Council. The grant will fund a Community Engagement Officer to run weekday events for LGBTIQ individuals living in the Inner West Local Government Area.

The Rainbow Tapestry project aims to promote social inclusion, health and wellbeing by connecting people through weekday events.

"The Inner West has many wonderful places and spaces to enjoy. Our weekly events intent to showcase them!" said Pj Dwyer, President of MCC Welfare Services.

"Over many years of supporting people living with HIV/AIDS, we learnt that when individuals are connected to their communities, they are more resilient - particularly when life gets a little bumpy" said Pj Dwyer.

MCC Welfare Services will have a stall at Fair Day, Victoria Park on 18 February.

Community Engagement Officer

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 07:16:35 GMT

Employer: MCC Welfare Services Inc
Work Type/s: Contract, Part Time
Classification/s: Community Development, GLBTI & Sexual Health
Sector/s: Not For Profit (NFP)
Location: Sydney

Job posted on: 24 January, 2018.
Applications close: No Deadline – please apply as soon as possible

Part Time (three days a week)
6 month Contract with possible extension
Location: Based in Petersham, Sydney and surrounding Inner West Areas

MCC Welfare Services work with the LGBTQIA communities within Sydney. We believe in an inclusive safe environment and strength through shared experiences together.

About the role:

The Community Engagement Officer will be responsible for engaging LGBTQIA people in the Inner West area and develop initiatives that foster social interaction, build capacity and increase social capital.

The Rainbow Tapestry Project is a new development area for MCC Welfare services and we require a self-starter who can implement basic social programs. The role will encompass a range of community development activities from understanding the needs and capacity of our communities, resource planning, implementation, external stakeholder engagement, ongoing monitoring and assessment.

Whilst most of the work will be undertaken within regular business hours, some outside of normal business hours maybe required.

The role will be the equivalent to a SCHCADS Level 3.

Essential

Demonstrated strong links/ connection to the LGBTQIA community in the Inner West
Demonstrated understanding of community development principals
Experience working with groups
Ability to travel within Inner West to meet with stakeholders and conduct events
Ability to undertake record keeping
Police check clearance

Desirable

Tertiary education in the community services sector
Drivers licence

How to apply for this job
Please send expressions of interest including resume and cover letter addressing criteria to contact@mccws.org.au using the subject line: Community Engagement Officer application via EthicalJobs.

Results of AGM

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 08:07:40 GMT

In September, MCC Welfare Services held our Annual General Meeting. The Board for the next year will be:

President - Pj Dwyer
Secretary - JC Clements
Treasurer - Alan Maurice
Ordinary Member - Michael Sellen

The Board has hit the ground running and looks forward to a busy year ahead.

Broken Heel Festival

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Tue, 12 Sep 2017 07:38:48 GMT

MCC Welfare Services is at the Broken Heel Festival. Drop by for a game of ping pong!

Click on this link for more information: https://www.bhfestival.com/

About MCC Welfare Services’ logo

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 31 May 2017 00:02:54 GMT

Have you ever wondered what the MCC Welfare Services logo means? We did also, at first. Then we sat down one day and started breaking down the elements and colours. This is what we came up with:

Two-tone heart – we are stronger when we stand with each other

White circle – connects the humble beginnings of our past to a future which will never be complete

Green rectangle – we know that we cannot do everything and what we do, brings life!

MCCWS contributes to Share the Dignity

florian.glinserer@worldhost.group — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 04:05:38 GMT

Last weekend MCC Welfare Services handed 8 boxes of sanitary pads to MCC Sydney as part of their #dignitydrive to help homeless women and trans men.

There's one more week to contribute. Your donation can be delivered to MCC Sydney, 96 Crystal St, Petersham next Sunday. There are two services (10am & 6:30pm) so please drop off before or after these times.

melbourneit377

Thank you for 2025

Laughs, Legends & A Whole Lotta Queer Joy!

You’re invited

Christmas Day Lunch

We are once again partnering with Metropolitan Community Church Sydney to host a table for Christmas Day Lunch at Petersham RSL

Thank you!

Today is GiveOUT Day

Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry?

I have a favour to ask. Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry project with me for Give OUT Day?

Raffle winner announced

Please join us in congratulating Nic, who won our Friendship Day raffle.

We are sure Nic and their family and friends will have lots of fun learning how to play:

﻿

Comedy line-up announced

Win a games hamper

Win a games hamper, valued at $300, this International Friendship Day.

Celebrate friendship with comedy

Christmas Day Lunch

Short Story Competition closes this Friday

Thank you for raising $2,800

Short story competition opens this Friday

Sharing Our Stories

Loneliness: The Hidden Pandemic

Meet the 2021-22 Board

Will you champion the Rainbow Tapestry?

23.8% Often Don't Have Anyone To Talk To

In for the long haul

How are you?

Complete our questionnaire

Become a volunteer

House of Welcome

Visit us at Fair Day

Launch of Loneliness survey

Reflections on January 2020

Vision, Purpose and Values

No one should ever die lonely.

Spark us on!

Vivid Pride 2019 On Sale

Tickets are now on sale for MCC Welfare Services' Vivid Pride Harbour Cruise. To book go to our Rainbow Tapestry page or copy this link: www.trybooking.com/489911 More details below:

Save the date - 20th anniversary

In October 2019, MCC Welfare Services will have been serving the Rainbow Communities for 20 years.

Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou

Candles lit and extinguished

AGM 15 October

We've been Indeqx!

The Elephant in the Room

Rainbow Tapestry Launch/Fundraiser

Mardi Gras Fair Day

Community Engagement Officer joins MCCWS

$19k kickstarts Rainbow Tapestry Project

Community Engagement Officer

Results of AGM

Broken Heel Festival

About MCC Welfare Services’ logo

MCCWS contributes to Share the Dignity