2024 Central Gold Coast Volunteer Awards

We are very excited to share some wonderful news with all our friends and supporters.

Yesterday, two MCCGC dedicated volunteers, Christine Wren James and Stephen James, were honoured at the 2024 Central Gold Coast Volunteer Awards, presented by Angie Bell MP. This is much-deserved recognition for Chris’ and Stephen’s incredible commitment to helping students build confidence through our Coffee, English and Friends program in Palm Beach. Coffee, English and Friends is our English social class that we hold every Tuesday, which provides a supportive and engaging environment for learners in all levels from different cultural backgrounds.

We are proud to note that MCCGC was also recognised in the ceremony for its commitment to promoting multicultural values. Read more about the honour in this extract from the awards ceremony:

Stephen James and Christine Wren James

Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) offer a social group for the multicultural community where participants of all ages can come together, have fun and connect while learning English. Since 2021, Stephen and Christine have been amazing volunteers. They support the group by teaching and improving participants' English skills, creating a safe and supportive environment to learn together. They support participants to improve their English skills and give migrants who struggle with the language barrier a sense of purpose. Stephen and Christine recently supported a 75-year-old Brazilian woman who lost her English fluency and confidence after a stroke. Despite enrolling in English classes with a different organisation, the stress of speaking made her quit. Soon after, she found MCCC's social group, and with the support of Stephen and Christine, she regained her confidence and overcame her fear of speaking. She is now an active and enthusiastic participant in the classes. Stephen and Christine have become like family to all those they have helped.

Congratulations Chris and Stephen, we are so proud of you!