Living Well social groups
Involve 2024-25
A welcoming space for older adults to connect, stay active, and feel supported.
Involve provides a safe and welcoming space for older community members to participate in thoughtfully designed programs that strengthen connection, activity and emotional wellbeing. In 2024–25, the program continued to grow with the successful transition of social groups from Communities at Work, new activities at the Ngunnawal Community Centre, and additional employees joining CRCS to ensure continuity for participants.
Connection and Belonging
Involve plays a vital role in reducing isolation and helping older adults feel part of their community. This year, 75% of participants told us Involve helps them connect with their community. Just as importantly, every participant said they are treated with respect all of the time, and 83% said they trust CRCS to do the right thing by them. These results highlight the importance of Involve as a space where older people feel valued, included, and connected.
“Involve means enjoyment and life. It’s like belonging to a bigger family and we all care and share our happy times or our sad times.” – Involve participant.
Purpose and Wellbeing
Equally important is the sense of purpose and wellbeing that Involve brings. For 81% of participants, this includes feeling consulted and having choice and control over the services they receive.
Behind these figures are real stories of people whose lives are enriched by being part of Involve.
The Aged Care Participant Advisory Group (ACPAG) also helps guide programs like Involve, ensuring they remain accessible, relevant, and meaningful. By listening to the voices of older adults, ACPAG makes sure activities reflect what matters most to participants and support their independence, wellbeing, and sense of community.
As one participant shared:
“I have been a member of Involve for a few years now, as a walker with the Walky Talky group, this offers me the opportunity to walk in safety in areas I would not otherwise visit with other like-minded people whose company is such a joy to share.
Also as a member of Best Club, this group have been such a happy caring and sharing group who really look out for each other. The activities and entertainment provided have become the highlight of my week, and friendships have been formed.
The CRCS team who help us with these activities are just wonderful, I can’t speak highly enough of their care and interest with each individual, the fact they listen and act on our needs.
I felt I would like to share with you the enormous gap this has filled in my life, Involve has been a true blessing to my life.”
Impact stats
82%
said the program meets or exceeds their expectations
91%
reported they get the service they need most or all of the time
81%
told us they feel consulted and have choice and
control over the services they receive
100%
said CRCS follows up when they raise things about their services – showing accountability and reliability, and ensuring no one falls through the cracks.
Involve at a Glance
1 July 2024 – 30 June 2025
6,732 sessions
gave older community members opportunities to connect, learn, and stay active
28,469 hours
of engagement in social, creative, and fitness activities
249 people
regularly part of Involve groups
26 groups
on offer, including our community gym
15,852 volunteer hours
contributed by 7 volunteers, building connection and belonging by bringing people together with purpose and shared community.
Growing together
Welcomed 100 new participants from Communities at Work
8 social groups transitioned to CRCS and continue to run
Expanded into Ngunnawal Community Centre for greater accessibility
5 employees transitioned to CRCS to support continuity and relationships.
Case Studies
Christine’s Story: Staying Active and Independent
Christine, 77, lives with several health conditions but refuses to let them slow her down. Through Involve, she’s found independence, strength, and friendship in fitness and woodwork.
Helen’s Story
Helen has found both purpose and friendship through Involve. From volunteering with flower arrangements to joining walking groups, Involve has given her connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
Explore More of Our Impact
Each part of our work is connected. Explore more stories, programs and results from across the Annual Report.