LACK of educational opportunity is often associated with poverty, and education plays a significant role in breaking the poverty cycle, research has shown.
It’s a fact recognised by organisations such as the Smith Family, which had its genesis at Christmas in 1922.
Five businessmen delivered sweets and toys to an orphanage.
When the matron asked for their names, one said. “We’re all Smith; we’re the Smith Family.”
They walked away with a single goal: to improve the lives of disadvantaged children in Australia.
The first constitution was titled ‘The Constitution of the Smith Family Joyspreaders Unlimited’. That title became a mission statement that the organisation still adheres to today.
In the 1960s, General Secretary George Forbes recognised the potential of harnessing the skills and acumen of women through friendship.
And so, the VIEW Club (Voice, Interests and Education of Women), a national women’s support network, was established.
The VIEW Club’s 13,000-plus members support the Smith Family by providing volunteers who raise funds and connect with their local communities.
Over the decades, the focus of the Smith Family has evolved.
Currently, the Learning for Life education initiative is helping over 1860 disadvantaged students achieve their potential.
Gloucester VIEW Club first met on May 23, 1989, with 50 women present. The club celebrated its 37th birthday in May.
“Currently we support students through the Learning for Life program,” spokeswoman Kerry Brauton told NOTA.
“For privacy reasons, we only know each student’s name, age, and state.
“We get regular updates about how they are going and send them birthday and Christmas cards.”
Members meet on the third Tuesday of the month at the Gloucester Bowling Club at 11am for 11.30 am.
The $25 charge includes a two-course meal.
Fundraising activities include monthly raffles and a trading table.
“We either have a theme for the day or a guest speaker,” Ms Brauton said.
“Our guest speakers have included representatives from the fire brigade, the council’s recycling centre and Yancoal, who spoke about mine closures.
“At our next meeting, we’ll have a guest speaker from the Neighbourhood Centre.
For more information, call 0401 686 699 or visit: Facebook (Gloucester View Club 2026) or https://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/view-clubs/find-a-club/nsw/gloucester-view-club
By Marilyn SANDERSON
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