Events that keep
Mind Connections Foundation has transitioned from a monthly event model to a focused annual program structure for our major community initiatives. While we continue to deliver a wide range of smaller activities and campaigns throughout the year that celebrate local and international themes aligned with our mission, we now centre our resources on a core set of annual flagship events. This strategic shift enables us to plan more effectively, strengthen community partnerships, and deliver programs that are inclusive, sustainable, and scalable.
Why an Annual Program?
Focusing on an annual format enables us to:
- Deliver greater impact with well-prepared, high-quality events
- Reach more people who are vulnerable through coordinated awareness campaigns; first nation, women, seniors, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, adolescents, and individuals experiencing mental health challenges or social isolation.
- Ensure long-term sustainability with strategic partnerships
- Evaluate and adapt programs for ongoing community benefit
We remain committed to change minds of our community. We lead from the front for a healthier, more connected society, taking one meaningful step at a time.
Pawsitive Steps Festival
“Spread the word, and not the stigma” is our value proposition
Pawsitive Steps festival is a family fun day dedicated to celebrating dogs as champions of mental health; the day starts with a symbolic walk to signify the importance of mental health.
We embrace the importance and association of dogs, the importance of nutrition, physical wellbeing, and fun filled community activities. With like-minded community organisations, Mind Connections Foundation view a strategically embedded tapestry that consists of insight, and knowledge related to mental health issues. The event enhances community resilience and early help seeking behaviour.
The Women’s Wellness Hub – The Women’s Shed Hills Shire
Weekly the Women’s Wellness Hub
The Women’s Wellness Hub promotes positive health outcomes for women by offering weekly wellness-focused activities and information sessions and nurturing meaningful social connections. We offer a range of creative and social activities to reduce social isolation among women.
Feedback from members has been overwhelmingly positive, and one regular who is recently widowed commented:
“The Wellness Hub provides a huge social connection and helps deal me with difficulties and challenges of life. I feel it has been invaluable.”
This Wellness Hub is open to women of all ages, and it is more than just a social group, it’s a place to belong. It is a place to support, learn new skills, share resources, network, and socialise.
For updates and information, like and follow us on our Facebook.
Signature Annual Events: Focused, Impactful, and Inclusive
At Mind Connections Foundation, we are proud to present a newly streamlined Annual Program that brings lasting impact to our community. Moving from monthly events to a carefully curated calendar of annual initiatives allows us to focus our energy and resources on high-impact, inclusive, and sustainable experiences that make a difference.
Each of our annual events celebrates local and international awareness themes that align with our mission to foster mental wellness, community connection, education, and inclusion. These programs bridge gaps in the community and reflect the rich diversity of the people we serve—across ages, cultures, abilities, and identities.
Throughout the year, we promote resilience, early intervention, suicide prevention, and community empowerment through these standout events:
- International Women’s Day – March 8
Hosted by The Women’s Shed Hills Shire, this uplifting event brings together women and girls to celebrate equality, leadership, and empowerment. Supported by local dignitaries and community groups, we champion equal rights and inspire the next generation of young women to create lasting change.
- Pawsitive Steps Festival – Dogs, Families & Mental Health
A vibrant family day that unites people and pets to raise awareness for mental health. With activities, education, and joy, this much-loved event celebrates the healing bond between humans and dogs while promoting prevention and early intervention.
🌐 Visit: www.pawsitivesteps.com.au
- Mind Connections Academic Award – Western Sydney University
Launched in 2025, this award recognises academic excellence in allied health research. By encouraging studies focused on mental health in the Hills and North-Western Sydney, we foster innovation and improve wellbeing in our local communities.
- Annual Women’s Wellness Retreat
An enriching initiative by The Women’s Shed Hills Shire, this retreat offers a restorative escape for women to connect, reflect, and recharge. Through nourishing meals, mindfulness, and meaningful connection, the retreat nurtures emotional and mental wellbeing in a supportive environment.
- International Men’s Day – November 19
Established in 2023, this event highlights the mental health needs and positive contributions of men and boys. We raise awareness around safety, gender equality, emotional wellbeing, and healthy masculinity while celebrating male role models in family and community life.
