The 2016 Annual KARI Carers Awards Event was held over the weekend at a new venue – the Revesby Workers Club. For the first time ever, the event included all three regions; Southwest Sydney, Western Sydney and Central Sydney. Staff and carers came together to celebrate their achievements as well as their outstanding commitment to our children and young people in foster care.
The awards are an important way for us to honour KARI carers through a number of awards across different categories. This year, our Service Awards honoured carers who had been with KARI for five and 10 year milestones. Awards were also given out in the following categories:
- Commitment to Training
- Respite Carer of the Year
- Carer Recruiter of the Year
- Carer of the Year – Overall
- Carer of the Year – Kid’s Choice
- Carer of the Year – Staff Choice
- Carer of the Year – Carer’s Choice
While the adults attended the ceremony and enjoyed a delicious three-course meal, the kids took part in a range of fun activities onsite at the Club. Caseworkers supervised as the kids enjoyed activities such as Bingo, Monkey Mania, and bowling. They were also entertained by a magician as well as Mickey and Minnie Mouse who also made a surprise appearance. The adults enjoyed first class entertainment and the night kicked off with a dance performance from Muggera Dance Group, which was a huge hit with the audience.
Following dinner, guests were moved by a stunning performance by a very talented Year 6 student who is currently in KARI’s out-of-home care program. The young performer had worked on her song with KARI singing program facilitator Sarah Bertram, and chose to sing a beautiful rendition of Charlie Puth’s hit One Call Away. As a result, she blew away the audience with her performance.
KARI’s Chief of Operations Casey Ralph said the event was a huge success,
We could not do what we do at KARI without the dedication and commitment of our carers – this event is, and will continue to be a highlight of the KARI calendar. Congratulations to all the award winners on their successes and we look forward to seeing everyone back next year.
