We occasionally hear from buddies and volunteers who express a desire to either find a new buddy or to conclude their involvement with the project.
This happens for a number of reasons: either the buddy or volunteer may relocate, or perhaps one person may experience a change of circumstances, like starting a new job or taking on other commitments. From time to time buddies may have differences that can’t be resolved, leading to a break down in the relationship: this could be with regards to contrasting opinions on matters that appear in the news, or there’s no longer an alignment when it comes to respective interests.
Whatever the reasons, when it comes to ending a Gig Buddies friendship it usually comes with a heavy heart.
If the pairing was positive then naturally buddies and volunteers will look back on the experience with a sense of happiness. After all, no one can take away what they achieved, and their friendship can continue outside of the project.
If one person does decide to leave it doesn’t mean it’s the end for their buddy or volunteer, either. They can still attend Gig Buddies social events and we’ll step up our search for a replacement - should they wish to be re-matched.
Gig Buddies Sydney staff have had many ‘tricky’ conversations in the past with buddies and volunteers who have either considered a re-match or expressed a desire to leave. We want to ensure that both parties have an enjoyable experience while being part of the project - and we’re on hand to help with this.
If you can relate to this article or if you’d like to discuss your pairing with the team, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, get in touch on Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on 0422 061 990.
Celebrating the lives and achievements
Yesterday marked World Down Syndrome Day.
We at Gig Buddies Sydney stand by the following words, taken from the Down Syndrome Australia website: “On this day, people all around the world celebrate the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome. March 21st provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome around the world.”
It can’t rain on our parade
Last Saturday (20/3) we caught up with buddies in the eastern suburbs.
Originally scheduled to take place at Watsons Bay’s Robertson Park, Sydney experienced a very wet weekend meaning we had to move our gathering indoors. Thanks to everyone who braved the elements and joined us at Club Rose Bay instead.
To see more photos from Saturday’s outing, click here.
Drawing against the clock ✏️
This week we invite buddies to connect with us online for Pictionary.
Pens and paper at the ready, we’re drawing objects against the clock. If you’d like to join us on Zoom, click on the link listed below:
Friday 26/3
All online games will take place via Zoom. For information on how to use Zoom, load up the following easy read guide written by Learning Disability Wales. Alternatively, click here to check out our 'how to use Zoom' video.
If you have any questions or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, get in touch on Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on either 0422 061 990 or 0412 145 819.
Doubling up
We’re excited to welcome our newest matches to the family.
Say hello to Yufei and Erin (top, L - R) and Natalie and Courtney (bottom, L - R). It’s great to have you on board and we look forward to hearing about your forthcoming adventures.
Five of the finest
And volunteer training resumed this week - thanks to Petar (top) and Casey, Marcel, Molly and Harry (bottom, L - R) for coming in.
We look forward to introducing you to your respective buddies soon.
Back in a fortnight
We’ll now be taking a two week break from blogging, returning on Monday 12 April. Be sure to come back then as we have two pieces of exciting news to share with you next month.
Matthew, Carol, Tony, Bec and Chelsea
Would you like more information about Gig BuddiesSydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
Fancy revelling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.
The Gig Buddies Sydney project is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.
