About Ōwairaka (Mt Albert) Community Club
We are a Community Club providing creative and social opportunities for people with lived experience of mental health issues/tangata whai i te ora, to enhance and maintain their wellbeing in a non-clinical, supportive space.
Members overall well-being is enhanced through social connection and by exploring creativity. Members engage in group activities facilitated by a tutor or work on their own creative projects. All art materials are provided by the club and there is no fee for joining the club.
History of Ōwairaka (Mt Albert) Community Club
Ōwairaka Community Club, formerly known as Mt Albert Community Club (MACC) was started in 1990 by a social worker as a result of the closure of the large mental health institutions in Central Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau. The closures of Carrington and Oakley Hospitals were the beginning of the process of ‘deinstitutionalisation’ and a shift towards more community based care and support.
On the 21st May 1992 Mt Albert Community Club became an Incorporated Society.
Our aspiration for our members
That we engage with and are underpinned by Te Tiriti o Waitangi values of inclusiveness, diversity and mana enhancement for all members and their whanau - promoting understanding, respect, self-determination, empowerment, skills development, a sense of belonging and partnership. Within this being proactive in employing members as volunteers and paid staff.
Our aspiration for Aotearoa
That Te Tiriti o Waitangi is followed in policy and practice to enable all those with mental health challenges to become equal participants in society and reach their full potential without shame, stigma or fear.
Our kaupapa
Our kaupapa / philosophy is based on the six guiding values of
Manaakitanga
Provide a culturally supportive, safe and respectful social environment that uplifts a person’s mana. Promote the practices of aroha and āwhina. Showing kindness and hospitality to all members, whanau and visitors.
Whanaungatanga
Promote and establish strong connections between members, whanau, peers, staff and the wider community. Provide cultural support to members.
Kotahitanga
Provide a member centred service that promotes empowerment and actively recognises members abilities and strengths. Members collectively participate in the organisation and programme planning.
Wairuatanga
Recognising and supporting people’s spirituality. Provide a holistic approach to well-being that supports members’ recovery journey.
Kaitiakitanga
Protect members rights and well-being. Promote guardianship and protection of the environment through our programmes.
Ako
Experiential learning through creative exploration.
