As part of Foster and Kinship Care Week, KARI hosted a special Carer Thank You Lunch at Revesby Workers Club on Friday 4 September, recognising the remarkable contribution carers make to children, young people, families and community.
Nine carer households joined members of KARI’s Senior PSP team for a relaxed three-course lunch. The day was an opportunity to pause, connect and acknowledge the commitment, care and cultural connection KARI carers provide every day.
This year, KARI is formally recognising 50 carer households that have reached service milestones of five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years. These milestones represent many years of opening homes, strengthening family and kinship connections and supporting children and young people through times of change. They also reflect the important role carers play in helping Aboriginal children and young people remain connected to culture, family and community.
The lunch was filled with genuine connection, conversation, laughter and shared stories. A particularly special moment came as carers received their awards and reflected on their journeys, their families and what being part of the KARI community has meant to them.
Among the reflections shared on the day, one KARI carer spoke about the joy of watching children and young people grow, overcome challenges and build confidence over time. For them, one of the most rewarding parts of being a carer is: “Seeing how far they have come from where they were in the beginning.” This heartfelt reflection captured the spirit of the day and the lasting difference carers make through the stability, encouragement and connection they provide.
Carers who were unable to attend will have their awards personally delivered, ensuring every household being recognised has the opportunity to receive KARI’s acknowledgement and thanks.
While caring can sometimes be challenging, the stories shared throughout the day highlighted how the connections, achievements and special moments can outweigh the difficult ones. The event provided a culturally safe and welcoming space to celebrate carers and the lasting difference they make in the lives of children and young people.
KARI extends its sincere thanks to all our carers for the commitment, strength and care they continue to provide.
We look forward to celebrating together again at the KARI Christmas event at Luna Park later this year.
