Community
At a time of terror threats, globalisation, unemployment, drug abuse, homelessness it is not surprising many of us feel powerless – to lose help for ourselves and our community. Good Shepherd believes hope should not be lost. If we work together as a community we can influence decision makers, we can indeed make a difference.
That's why Good Shepherd continues working with local communities to develop shared visions for the future and to support others as they seek to fulfil their visions.
St Kilda
Community Development
Good Shepherd St Kilda has a strong tradition of working collaboratively with the local council, agencies and community members to initiate and develop programs that assist and empower individuals.
A recently developed partnership with St Columba’s Primary School in Elwood enables us to run a leadership, teambuilding and community action program called SIKA, with 9 and 10 year old students.
From this initial partnership, in collaboration with staff, we are developing a transition program for primary to secondary school for students in year 6. ‘Ready, Set, Go!’ will equip year 6 six students with the skills and confidence to cope with changes associated with transition. Parent evenings, liaising with local secondary schools and consultation with the students will form the content of this program.
By participating in networks, steering groups and forums with local agencies, residents and the City of Port Phillip, we work together towards outcomes for our community that are socially just and inclusive.
Peninsula
Community Programs
Community Programs uses collaborative community processes and consultation to identify and address issues of concern and interest within the Mornington Peninsula community, in particular for people with a current low income or otherwise experiencing exclusion within the community.
The scope of the programs varies from offering opportunities for inclusion and participation to creating programs for affordable and appropriate credit for residents on low incomes. Community Programs continually seeks to mentor local residents to address their needs; advocate for themselves and their community, a fundamental part of which is creating opportunities for increasing learning and skills development and strengthening community leadership. Community Programs recognises that a person's positive interaction and involvement within their community increases the health and wellbeing of that person, their family and indeed impacts on the wider communities social and economic stability and development.
Four major community undertakings are provided through Community Programs:
- Good Shepherd Community House
- Community Advocacy & Liaison Program incorporating Community Building and Community and Cultural Development
- Micro Credit – Westernport NILS ® and Mornington Peninsula StepUP Loans
- Hastings Neighbourhood Renewal
Each year, more than 5,000 people have some involvement with Good Shepherd Peninsula Community Programs.
Good Shepherd Community House
The Community House provides a range of Community/Neighbourhood House activities to the residents of Hastings - Westpark and surrounding areas. These activities assist people to develop or enhance their skills in computers, writing, crafts and fitness. The Community House provides an extensive Tool Library, groups for women and special “one off” workshops. Good Shepherd Community House also supports the Westpark Action Group, a local residents planning group and the Hastings Westpark Collaborative Group, established to provide landscaping and general improvements to the Hastings Westpark Village Square.
Good Shepherd Community House is open between 10am and 3pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during each school term.
Hastings Neighbourhood Renewal
Hastings Neighbourhood Renewal is an eight-year State Government funded project that brings together the ideas and resources of residents, community groups, local businesses and government to benefit the local community.
Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service currently auspice the Community Development position within Neighbourhood Renewal. The role of the Community Development worker involves engaging local residents in all aspects of the project including planning, leadership, advocacy and community action.
Residents are encouraged to take part in community events, the Steering Committee, the Residents Group and Action Groups. Participation will enable Hastings residents gain the skills and knowledge to influence and guide positive, local change in their local community.
Western
Community Programs
Community Programs uses collaborative community processes and consultation to identify and address issues of concern and interest within the Brimbank community, in particular for people with a current low income or otherwise experiencing exclusion within the community.
Community Programs recognises that a person's positive interaction and involvement within their community increases the health and wellbeing of that person, their family and indeed impacts on the wider communities social and economic stability and development.
Two major community undertakings are provided through Community Programs:
- Good Shepherd Community House
Microfinance - Brimbank NILS and Western Region StepUP Loans
Good Shepherd Community House
The Community House is situated at 168 Main Road West, St Albans and will provide a range of Community/Neighbourhood House activities to the residents of Brimbank. The community house was opened by the Hon Peter Batchelor on the 26th July 2007.
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