Today Bendigo Family and Financial Services announced the launch of our new Strategic Plan for 2021-23. In line with COVID-19 protocols, the launch took place online and was attended by BFFS supporters, management and staff.
The new strategic plan aims to set a direction for the future growth of the organisation and focuses on building organisational capacity, developing more partnerships, increasing community awareness and developing innovative new projects and programs.
We were very honoured to have Leonard Vary, CEO of The Myer Foundation and Sidney Myer Fund share his insights with us and offer encouragement for the organisation’s future endeavours. The foundation has been a staunch supporter of BFFS for many years.
Leonard paid tribute to Jenny Elvey, BFFS General Manager, for her vision and determination to create a successful organisation that supports those most at risk of financial disadvantage and social isolation. Leonard also acknowledged Jenny’s foresight in recognising that financial disadvantage cannot be isolated from other presenting problems, which necessitates taking the time to look at the whole picture in order to help each client on their journey to financial independence.
Since starting the organisation back in 2006, BFFS has grown into a multi-faceted organisation which offers a range of services and programs, that work together to assist clients regain control of their finances. In 2019, an office was also opened in Shepparton which provides most of the same services and programs offered in Bendigo.
BFFS Assistant manager, Tracie Driscoll talked about the organisation’s meagre beginnings and reiterated that it would not have been what it is today without Jenny’s vision and the backing of organisations, such as The Myer Foundation, who have supported the aims of BFFS from early on.
The importance of BFFS to the community has been highlighted during the COVID-19 crisis. Jill McPartlane, Community Services Worker, explained that while many other agencies were unable to quickly adapt to the new environment, BFFS was able to put in place procedures which allowed the agency remain open and provide drop-in emergency relief five days a week.
At the end of 2020, both the Shepparton and Bendigo offices moved to bigger and better premises. Jenny expressed excitement at the prospect of having great new spaces which will allow BFFS to offer even more innovative programs to assist those in the community who need it most.
