Community Development
From a child’s first playgroup to a young person accessing individual support, CRCS Child, Youth and Families services created welcoming places where people could connect, build confidence and access support. Throughout 2025–26, CRCS Community Development worked with community members, volunteers and partners to create welcoming opportunities for people to connect, participate and feel part of their community.
A key achievement was transitioning the University of Canberra’s Connect Up 2617 research pilot into an ongoing CRCS community development program. Originally designed for people aged 18–30 living in Belconnen Town Centre and Bruce, Connect Up has since expanded to include people aged 18–39 from across the broader Belconnen region, allowing the connections, activities and community-led opportunities created through the pilot to continue and grow.
Results of the research pilot found that more than 70% of participants
increased their social connections, 75% felt part of a group of like-minded people and almost 90% reported a stronger sense of belonging.
“Connect Up is a natural fit with our vision and purpose. It’s about helping young people feel connected and supported, giving them a sense of belonging, and creating more opportunities for engagement and inclusion in community life.”
– Mandy Green, CRCS Chief Executive Officer
During the year, CRCS hosted the Bring Your Bills event at Belconnen Community Centre and brought the Connect Up Festival to the CIT Bruce Open Day. We also expanded volunteering opportunities and introduced Social Pickleball alongside the popular Social Badminton program. The number of active volunteers grew to 15, helping to create friendly, inclusive activities where people could meet others and build lasting connections.
“The sessions aren’t just about playing badminton; they’re about building friendships, staying active and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. What keeps me coming back is the amazing energy and progress I see in the participants. It’s incredibly rewarding to share my skills and watch their confidence grow.”
– Connect Up Volunteer Facilitator and Participant
Real People, Real Connections
Here, we share how CRCS services make a real difference in the lives of participants, families and communities.
Putting down roots in a new city
through Nature Journalling
After moving to Canberra, Anne found connection and belonging through Nature Journalling, first as a participant and now as a volunteer facilitator.