Clubs & Community Awards 2024 Finalist
We’re thrilled to announce that Charity Housie has been selected as a finalist in the Social Inclusion category for the 2024 Clubs & Community Awards! This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our amazing team.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way.
Please find our submission below for more details on our efforts towards social inclusion.
Category: Social Inclusion
Program: Charity Housie – Engaging the community to raise funds for Learning Links
Why: Charity Housie is a community game similar to bingo and is a key contributor of funds to Learning Links, a not-for-profit organisation that has been empowering children to learn, develop and thrive for over 50 years.
The funds raised through Charity Housie are vital in enabling Learning Links to grow, innovate and maximise its impact on children and families. Housie is an inclusive game that promotes unity and acceptance by addressing the needs of the diverse community.
Not only do the funds raised through Learning Links Charity Housie change children’s lives, the interactive social game provides many benefits to the local community, including:
Social Interaction: Housie is often played in a group setting, which encourages social interaction and can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It provides an opportunity for patrons to connect with others, make new friends, and maintain existing relationships.
Cognitive Stimulation: Playing Housie involves listening, concentration, and memory skills.This mental engagement can help support cognitive functions and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Improved Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being: Housie can be a source of enjoyment and excitement. Additionally, the social aspect of the game can improve mood and
emotional well-being.
Routine and Structure: Regularly scheduled Housie games can provide a sense of routine and structure. This can be particularly beneficial for those in assisted living facilities or retirement communities, as it offers a predictable and enjoyable activity.
Physical Benefits: While Housie is not physically demanding, it can require some fine motor skills, such as picking up markers and marking numbers. These small movements can help maintain dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in a leisurely activity like Housie can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. It provides a break from daily worries and allows participants to focus on the game and the social interactions
Sense of Belonging: Housie games often create a sense of belonging and community.
Patrons who regularly participate in Housie sessions may feel like they are part of a close-knit group, which can be comforting and fulfilling. Housie players also get great satisfaction from knowing that they are participating in a fundraising activity that is changing children’s lives.
Fun and Entertainment: Ultimately, Housie is a fun and entertaining activity that can bring joy. It offers a break from the routine and can provide hours of enjoyment.
Learning Links runs 90 Charity Housie sessions per week in NSW across 44 NSW Clubs.
The feedback from our patrons is extremely positive:
“Charity Housie run by Learning Links is amazing. Not only are you having fun with friends and family, but you are helping support and benefit the next generation. The staff/callers are amazing and super helpful to newcomers. I have been going to some of the sessions and have been enjoying it very much. I definitely recommend Charity Housie if you are looking for a fun event to participate in and contribute to”
Sofia