Courage to Care turns 30
"We are creating a generation of Upstanders, so that our grandchildren will live in a better world."
Courage to Care Victoria will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a jam-packed week of events starting on May 25.
A project of B’nai B’rith, Courage to Care is a not-for-profit organisation providing education programs across Victoria that reach over 150,000 students and, in recent years, hundreds of adults across the community.
To recognise its significant milestone, Courage to Care is holding an exhibition hosted by the Ark Centre. Interactive “Upstander” program materials will be on display and volunteers will be on hand to explain all the work Courage to Care does.
CEO Mike Zervos said, “There are a series of events that include exhibition tours, a community Upstander education program, a breakfast educational panel … and a discussion about discrimination.”
There will also be a VIP night with Libbi Gorr as MC and addresses from Courage to Care’s partners at the Gandel Foundation as well as Holocaust survivors.
The book launch for Diane Armstrong’s new release Dancing with the Enemy will be a part of the week-long event.
“This is a special occasion and a unique opportunity to hear from some outstanding speakers and for us to share with everyone our 30-year journey to date and plans for the future,” Zervos said.
The main exhibition acts as a rare opportunity for the general public to see the interactive display, which uses lessons from history to demonstrate how families, communities, diplomats and individuals can be Upstanders and stand up to discrimination.
Zervos explained that the free exhibition uses artefacts and interactive technology to bring the Upstander message to life, and that the volunteers will provide educational and empowering guided tours, welcoming all members of the community.
Courage to Care survivor custodian speaker Susan Hearst said, “By having open discussions with students, we empower them to become Upstanders, wherever they encounter prejudice and discrimination.
“We are creating a generation of Upstanders, so that our grandchildren will live in a better world.”
Zervos added, “We have a lot to be proud of over the last 30 years, but realise there is still so much to do.”
More information: couragetocare.org.au/home
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