Annual Report 2020-2021
Message from the Board
On behalf of the NCNS Board of Directors, I would like to acknowledge the Darug people as the traditional custodians of the land we work on. I would like to pay my respects to Elders both past and present; to Aboriginal Directors and staff and our Aboriginal clients and community.
As always, the Board and the staff of NCNS are committed to their values, mission and purpose, and this is illustrated by their continual progress in delivering quality, effective programs that address the current issues that our communities face, while facing funding uncertainty and the challenges this brings. All of this is supported and supplemented by the work of our Youth, Community, Aboriginal, Parenting, Early Childhood, Functional Family Therapy, and Closing the Gap teams, all demonstrating commitment, innovation, and professionalism.
This year the team have continued to deal with the COVID 19 pandemic, while still maintaining services. We have been present for community in the safest way possible while negotiating the changing Public Health Orders. The team have done everything they can to support vulnerable populations – especially Aboriginal people over 45 and with chronic diseases. This has meant several adaptations to our service delivery modalities – which have highlighted the team’s flexibility, community-focus, and resourcefulness. We are particularly proud of COVID 19 Testing clinic that was run every weekday for a full year at Koolyangarra, with thanks to the LHD, and Histopath – this local, accessible service meant testing became easy and accessible for our community.
Setting the path for NCNS that supports our community and NCNS’ growth through these challenging times is the focus of the Directors, and we will continue to do this with passion and commitment in the best interests of our community, but also our staff. This year, we recognise the enormous contribution that Patricia Formosa has made to NCNS. Patricia has been a Company Secretary, Director and a true voice of the people. | 2020 - 2021Annual Report As a board member her hallmark style been her availability and approachable presence to all staff, particularly Aboriginal staff and her consistent voice and clarity of vision in setting and maintaining our strategic direction.
Over two decades, Pat’s contribution to NCNS is immense. I join with the management team, staff and directors to wish Pat well and thank her for setting the agenda for the success NCNS has enjoyed. The Board thanks Joy, our Leadership Team, and our entire Project Staff, volunteers and students for their commitment, support, and continuing efforts to provide the best possible outcomes for our whole community throughout what has been a challenging year. We thank all our Board Members, Mary, Patricia, Brad, Janis, Leanne and Joy – thank you for your continual support, dedication, hard work, and knowledge this year.
Sharon Williams Chairperson