Learn about Supporting Independence & Community Connection
Meet Vivienne, IC Care’s Chief Financial Officer, dedicated to educating the community about available aged care services and how to access them.
Read on to discover IC Care’s commitment to supporting independence and connection for seniors and people with disabilities in Wollondilly. Learn about their services, explore support options, and find out how you can get involved - whether as a volunteer or by sharing with someone in need.
Let's start with a little bit about you
After leaving school I worked for the bank for 12.5 years, following this I dabbled in many fields but ended up counting money and looking after many businesses’ accounts. I became a registered Bookkeeper and commenced working for NFP organisations in 2002 and commenced with IC Care in 2012. I started as a Financial Assistant, I did a traineeship through IC Care, and now I'm the Chief Financial Officer. Recently, I celebrated my 13 year work anniversary at IC Care; it’s been a wonderful journey!
Tell us about your journey into senior and disability care
I fell into working for an aged care and disability provider. Prior to working for IC Care, I worked for a NFP for children. Aged care is something that I am about, especially as my own parents are aged. There is an unknown world of how to navigate services for people who need help. My job, I believe, is to educate as many people as possible on what services are available for our aged and how to access them.
And a little bit about IC Care
IC Care, was formally multiple services (Meals on Wheels Wollondilly, Neighbourhood Aid, and Senior Friendship Group) which amalgamated under the banner of Wollondilly Support and Community Care Inc. The amalgamated service has been around since 2008, however, Meals on Wheels started over 50 years ago in this area. IC Care rebranded in 2018 due to a merger with Camden District Activity Centre located in Camden.
IC Care is special as it knows its community. It works within the community, providing services that the community need and want. It will fight for aged clients who singularly have a small voice, collectively we fight together to help those who are less fortunate. It is wonderful that we have been recognised for a list of Milestones & Achievements in recent years. In 2023 we were awarded Wollondilly Local Business Awards Winner for Outstanding Specialised Business. In 2024 we received the Wollondilly Local Business Awards Winner for Most Inclusive Employer. This year we have been nominated for the Wollondilly Local Business Awards in the Specialised Business category. We are very proud of our awards!
Who has been a great influence on you or the business?
I believe that our CEO, Lisa Smith has been one of my greatest influences in my career. She has and continues to share her experience and knowledge with our staff and I. She has a wealth of knowledge; she encourages education and training of all kinds.
What makes IC Care successful?
I believe that IC Care’s success is its reputation in the community of Wollondilly. Our reputation for caring for the people who work with us, volunteer with us and the clientele we support is a major factor. We love to celebrate our staff and volunteers, in May we celebrate a special day for Volunteers, we have monthly and yearly awards and we love to celebrate special milestones of service.
What challenges are you facing?
A major challenge that IC Care has faced is the significant decline in volunteer numbers since the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, IC Care had up to 150 volunteers, but today, that number has dropped to just 47. Many people’s routines changed post-pandemic, making it difficult to recruit new volunteers.
One of the biggest struggles is transportation, particularly the need for more volunteer drivers. Currently, only two drivers are available to service the Liverpool area, limiting the ability to get clients to medical appointments. Additionally, funding constraints impact meal and transport services. With current funding, IC Care can only provide seven meals per week for 45 clients each month. Since reopening their Meals on Wheels service for new clients in February, demand has increased significantly, with nine new clients signing up within just two weeks.
IC Care welcomes volunteers aged 18 and over with a police check (paid for by IC Care), and they also offer opportunities for younger volunteers to assist in the kitchen, with group and in admin under supervision. However, attracting and retaining volunteers remains an ongoing challenge.
What has been your proudest accomplishment so far?
Steering the organisation for growth, ensuring funding is best utilised.
Are there any other interesting facts about IC Care you would like to share?
IC Care is more than just a community service, we are an inclusive employer. We provide opportunities for people with disabilities and creating a welcoming environment for all. We strongly believe in the importance of encouraging the younger generation to give back to their community, and volunteering with us is a great way to develop valuable life skills while making a real difference.
For those looking to build their experience, volunteering at IC Care offers more than just a chance to help others. Employers value candidates who have experience beyond standard curriculum activities, and our volunteers gain hands-on training in first aid, food safety, and food handling - all provided for free.
The work our volunteers do is essential to the services we provide, especially in supporting our elderly residents. The impact is incredibly rewarding, and we welcome anyone who wants to be part of something meaningful. Whether you're looking to give back, learn new skills, or connect with your community, IC Care is a place where your time and effort truly matter.
Where’s your go-to place in Wollondilly for great food, gifts, or a treat?
The Kids Cottage Toy Boutique in Picton. La Crème in Picton, Glens Bakery in The Oaks. Tahmoor Newsagency or Hippy Luxe for all your gifts. Pietro Italian Restaurant at Warragamba.
Aside from IC Care, which local business do you love and support?
Too many to choose from! All of our local businesses have been wonderful supporters of IC Care. Recently we have enjoyed working with the local pubs, clubs and cafes on a new promotion called ‘Shout a Mate a Meal’ where patrons at venues can use a QR to donate to IC Care so we can provide a meal for a local in need.
