On 6th February 2017 (Monday), Inala Community House’s Community Engagement team hosted an interagency meeting regarding an upcoming Inala Multicultural Youth Soccer Project.
The Meeting was held from 3.30-5pm at Inala Community House Business Centre (38 Sittella Street, Inala QLD 4077 | http://www.ich.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Hall-Hire-DL-Trifold.pdf).
We invited key decision-makers of local schools, community groups and network partners – such as QPASTT, Brisbane City Council and MDA – to collaborate in establishing a new non-profit community-based Inala Multicultural Youth Soccer Project. This Project aims to promote physical health, social cohesion and fair opportunities for all Inala youth, especially those from refugee or less privileged backgrounds.
The Meeting started off with one-on-one Introduction by our diverse mix of attendees and their individual goals for the Project.
“Thank you everyone who has made the time to attend today’s Meeting. Sports can be a great common ground for young people, especially those who may not speak good English. Sports need no language and you can easily connect simply by kicking a ball and having fun together,” said Brisbane City Council Community Development Coordinator Donna Bowe.
At this stage, our primary focus will be to first secure a $20,000 funding grant for the Inala Multicultural Youth Soccer Project.
“We also plan to hire a specialised Project Worker who will closely correspond and address the specific needs of every participating organisation to ensure the overall success of this Project,” said Brisbane City Council Community Development Coordinator Donna Bowe.
This Inala Multicultural Youth Soccer Project is also linked to Inala Community House’s Community Cup (https://www.facebook.com/ICHCommunityCup) which will be a hosting a family-friendly charity soccer tournament later this year. We will also invite sports clubs like Lions Clubs to participate by possibly offering scholarships or reduced fees for less privileged Inala youth.
“Inala State School is interested in engaging students beyond school hours. This Project can educate our children about proper rules and sportsmanship, while overcoming language or cultural barriers. Our grade 3 and 4 boys are the most passionate about playing soccer,” said Inala State School Principal Pam Ruddell.
“At Inala Community House, we are committed to enhancing the lives of our Inala community members. By encouraging youth sports participation, we are building a stronger and healthier community in the long run,” said Community Engagement Manager Haley Kiata.
We encourage ongoing feedback and support from every participating individual and organisation for this Project. If you’d like to get involved, please contact Haley Kiata info@ich.org.au or call (07) 3372 1711 today!