A community support program established during the COVID pandemic has won the local government category at the 2025 Welcoming Cities Awards for Change.
The Community Connector Program has been instrumental in supporting more than 1000 vulnerable individuals and families in Greater Dandenong, helping to connect them to essential support services.
The program began as a temporary measure in response to COVID, but evolved into a permanent service once the depth of need became apparent.
Through word of mouth this program has become an invaluable tool to help support those most in need forming partnerships with more than 50 organisations and improving access to vital services such as material aid, housing support and health access.
A key focus of the program has been supporting Afghan families who have arrived since the 2021 fall of Afghanistan. More than 700 individuals have received support in areas such as education, employment, social connections and navigating complex systems like the NDIS.
The program has inspired others and created a ripple effect of support in our community.
The Welcoming Cities Award was presented to Council’s Community Connector officer Arif Azizi at an award ceremony in Sydney last week.
Dr Marjan Hajjari congratulated Arif for his role in making the program a success.
“This recognition celebrates Council’s work in supporting vulnerable communities, connecting over 1000 individuals and families to essential services and making a real difference in their lives.
“Well done Arif. Your compassion, care and humility have made a meaningful difference in many lives. This recognition is truly well deserved.”
Welcoming Cities is a national network of local government bodies who are committed to an Australia where everyone can belong and participate in social, cultural, economic and civic life.