• Two-speaker online presentation on Tuesday 7 September will examine participation and engagement as part of Social Sciences Week 2021

As part of Social Sciences Week 2021, Charles Sturt University will present a range of online events, including a free public lecture about ‘Creating communities of hope in complex times’.

The ‘ Creating communities of hope in complex times’ presentation is a two-part one-hour online event starting at 11am on Tuesday 7 September.

This presentation is a partnership between Dr Monica Short, a member of ILWS and Lecturer in social work in the Charles Sturt School of Social Work and Arts, and the Reverend Sarah Plummer from Anglicare NSW South, NSW West, and ACT.

Talk One by Dr Short is titled ‘Community engagement, hope, forgiveness and relationship: A social work, sociological and theological conversation’.

Dr Short said one way the United Nations defines engagement is ‘Seeking to address barriers and build the capacity and confidence of people to participate in, and negotiate and partner with, institutions that affect their lives’.

“This topic is sparked by my work about rural Anglican Church engagements and this talk will start with presenting a cross-disciplinary discussion of engagement and participation,” Dr Short said.

“It will also briefly consider the importance of hope, forgiveness and reconciliation when engaging with groups.”

Dr Short said regardless of location and situation, the talk will help grow interest in grassroots movements and local institutions and will consider how engagement promotes human flourishing in the community.

“This talk celebrates that engagement can be a civic, local, public, social and/or faith-based activity, and holistically and authentically respect and promote the dignity of all who are engaging with institutions,” she said.

Talk Two by Anglicare’s Rev’d Sarah Plummer considers ‘How can agencies work with grassroots churches to promote community engagements: Sharing stories of hope’.

In this presentation, as an Executive Manager with Anglicare, Rev’d Plummer will share her professional observations of the current experience of isolation and disconnection in Australia caused by drought, bushfires, flood, hail, mental health challenges, stress and COVID-19.

“Stories of hope during difficulty and isolation can inspire us all,” she said.

“The talk will include Biblical narratives and sociological insights to value connection and reconnection with our communities, friends, and family.

“It will also introduce a partnership framework and outline its utility in promoting grassroots community connections.”

To participate in the ‘Creating communities of hope in complex times’ presentation at 11am on Tuesday 7 September, click the ZOOM link.

The Charles Sturt contribution to Social Sciences Week 2021 (Monday 6 to Sunday 12 September) is organised by its Institute for Land, Water and Society (ILWS).