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Mission Statement The Mission of the Endeavour Hills UnitingCare Neighbourhood Centre is to build upon the Church's mission to provide a caring, nurturing, learning centre reaching out an open door to all members of the community. We aim to offer all individuals, respect and care in a friendly, affordable and co-operative environment. Centre Objectives - Deliver programs which enable users to develop positive relationships with each other and their community.
- Provide high quality services in ways which promote human dignity and that reflect the changing needs of the community.
- Ensure that the adult education programs are non-discriminatory and are planned, implemented, managed and evaluated in a consultative and participative manner.
- Provide or encourage innovative services.
- Keep fees as low as possible in keeping with our not-for-profit status.
- Provide a welcoming non-threatening environment for group participants.
- To recognize the importance of craft and creativity in the development of not only personal skills but in the foundation of forming long and lasting friendships.
Established in 1980 The Neighbourhood Centre began its life in 1980. Under the guidance of the Rev. Ian McDonald a house was built in Matthew Flinders Avenue, for the purpose of providing a community meeting place for the people of Endeavour Hills. He also obtained finance from the Department of Community Welfare to employ a part-time co-ordinator. This became known as the Community House and a limited number of activities were held during the week for young mothers and their children and church services on Sunday. Growing Stronger By the mid 80's larger premises were needed to cope with the growth of the programs, which now included indoor bowls, more arts and crafts and Sunday school for the children. Land was purchased in Hellyer Way and a new multi-purpose centre was opened in 1986 comprising of the Endeavour Hills Uniting Church, Childcare Centre and the Community House, which changed its name to Neighbourhood Centre. Many new and innovative programs were introduced such as mature-age study and English for migrants. In January 2001 the Centre moved to the larger Council owned building at 10 Raymond McMahon Blvd. Extensions were built in late 2003, thanks to the City of Casey and ACE Capital Funding Program. This meant that even more classes/activities needed to be developed. It is a very busy, exciting time and everyone involved at the Centre finds it especially rewarding to see these developments progress. The Neighbourhood Centre has become a well-known and respected adult education centre in Endeavour Hills and intends to continue to grow and fulfill the needs of the community. Committee of Management The Neighbourhood Centre is run by a voluntary committee; the committee employs a co-ordinator to manage the day to day running of the Centre and programming of activities and classes. Everyone who attends the centre has the opportunity to participate in the decision making process through our committee of management. Management committee training is offered throughout the year. Volunteering Volunteering is a worthwhile and meaningful way to expand your horizons and be part of your local community. You only have to commit a few hours each week and it is a wonderful opportunity to gain experience that maintains or adds to you current work skills. You will receive training and support from the Co-ordinators of the Neighbourhood Centre. You can volunteer in many areas, including office work, tutoring, child care, promotion of the Centre, fundraising and administration. Phone 9700 3789 during office hours.
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