WHAT happens when we stop talking about people experiencing mental health challenges and start listening to their stories?
Stories That Move Us is a community event presented by Kindred Clubhouse, with support from Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, bringing people together to hear real stories of mental health, recovery, connection, resilience and hope.
Kindred Clubhouse has been building community for fourteen years. Based on the internationally recognised Clubhouse model, Kindred provides a peer-led space where people living with mental health challenges can find belonging, build confidence and relationships, and explore opportunities for education, volunteering and employment.
Kindred Clubhouse Director Stefanie Poole says the event is an opportunity for the wider community to hear directly from the people at the heart of Kindred.
“Too often, conversations about mental health happen around people rather than with them. Stories That Move Us gives members the opportunity to share their experiences in their own words, and for the community to really listen.”
In 2025, Kindred provided 1,040 hours of peer support, prepared and shared 3,060 meals and provided 205 days of support across Frankston, Mornington Peninsula, Kingston, Casey and Bayside. But behind those numbers are people, relationships and stories.
At Stories That Move Us, Kindred members will share experiences that challenge assumptions, break down stigma and show what connection and belonging can mean for recovery.
“We want people to leave with a better understanding of mental health, but also with a sense that every one of us can help create a community where people feel valued, included and able to belong,” Stefanie said.
Stories That Move Us will be held at Deoro By The Bay, 21 Skinner Street, Hastings, this Friday 30th October from 5.30pm–9:00pm, with canapés, raffle and auction prizes.
Be part of the change. Hear the real stories. Challenge the stigma. Change the conversation.
Tickets are available through Humanitix: events.humanitix.com/stories-that-move-us
First published in the Western Port News – 28 October 2026
