Since Martina Button was nine, she has always had a passion to help others with aspirations of going to Africa and becoming a missionary.

Her compassionate nature continued well into her adult life, where she found her calling working with communities, educating others and volunteering in Australia and in the United Kingdom.

Martina loves connecting with people and making a positive impact to their life. It was this drive mixed with 10 years’ experience in community development that secured her the role of Wellbeing Hub Project Officer at the City of Playford.

“This role is really important to me," Martina said. “It involves developing and facilitating programs to support people to be physically and mentally healthy and helping people achieve their personal goals and stay connected socially."

The Playford Wellbeing Hub spans across two sites, The John McVeity Centre and The Precinct in Smithfield Plains. Programs on offer at the Playford Wellbeing Hub include fitness, walking and ‘come and try sports’ at the John McVeity Centre and healthy eating through gardening and cooking programs, open days and art projects at The Precinct.

Martina said: “Our programs are interactive and provide opportunities for individuals to focus on their mind and body."

“We know by being physically active daily, you are more likely to feel happier, improve your mood and have a positive outlook." she said. “We also know getting kids involved in the kitchen teaches them new life skills and then they are more interested in healthy foods and eating well.”

This philosophy has influenced the development of the Wellbeing Hub’s programs and services.

According to Martina the Playford Wellbeing Hub is a family friendly space to visit.

“You can try new things, make new friendships and have fun," she said. “It’s the New Year, come in and say hello and experience the programs for yourself.”

The Playford Wellbeing Hub is a partnership project between the City of Playford and the South Australian Government under the Wellbeing SA Statewide Wellbeing Strategy.

To learn more visit www.playford.sa.gov.au/wellbeinghub, or call 8256 0333.