A win-win situation

We’re fast approaching the end of another financial year.

If you’re looking to increase your tax return deductions this year, you could consider making a donation to a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). These are not-for-profit organisations doing work to improve something about our world, with DGRs in just about every area you could imagine.

Many agencies working for or within LGBTIQ communities rely on donations for part of their funding and have DGR status. Any donation you make over $2 is tax deductible and goes directly to helping the agency continue its work. A win-win situation for everyone involved.

The Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service (GLCS) has this status, as do Twenty10, the Aurora Group, PFLAG, ACON, the Gender Centre and the Inner City Legal Centre amongst many others. For services that target mental health and wellness, you could also consider Suicide Prevention Australia or the Mental Health Association of NSW. A full list of DGRs in Australia is available at www.abr.business.gov.au

In other news, GLCS is launching ‘Social Saturdays’ on Saturday, July 16, 4.30pm, 43 Bedford St, Newtown. People over the age of 18, from all genders and identities within the LGBTIQ communities are welcome to this monthly social group away from the pub and club scene. There is no need to register or attend every month — you can drop in for a cup of tea, a game of cards or whatever else is happening that afternoon, or just come to say hello. We’re launching with a trivia afternoon — test your knowledge or just watch the fun.

Our Counselling and Info Line is open daily 5.30pm-9.30pm on 02 8594 9596 and Lesbian Line (for women, by women) is open Mondays 5.30pm-9.30pm on 02 8954 9595. The Women’s Coming Out Group meets every second and fourth

Thursday of the month and the Talking It Out men’s discussion group meets every first and third Thursday of the month. SMART Recovery meets Mondays at 6pm.

info: www.glcsnsw.org.au or email [email protected]

By FIONA PASKULICH, GLCS NSW