Our Community Place Inc

Our Community Place Inc (ABN: 23709702230RR0001) is an Australian nonprofit organization serving as a local drop-in neighbourhood centre in the Lake Macquarie region of New South Wales. The organization focuses on providing support, information, referral services, and community programs primarily for families, individuals, and children residing in the suburbs of Windale, Gateshead, and Charlestown.

History

Originally established in 1987 as the Lake Macquarie Neighbourhood Information Centre Inc., the organization initially offered a broad range of community activities such as sustainable gardening, home maintenance, arts classes, drama for children, exercise programs for seniors, advocacy services, and online support for surrounding areas including Boolaroo, Speers Point, and Warners Bay.

Following significant local industrial changes, including the closure of the Pasminco Mining Smelter at Cockle Creek and subsequent community gentrification, the organization rebranded to Our Community Place Inc in 2005 to better align with the evolving needs of the community.

Since 2015, under new management and leadership, Our Community Place has undergone strategic renewal efforts to strengthen its capacity in securing funding, forging partnerships, and expanding community engagement to effectively address current and future community needs across Lake Macquarie.

Mission and Vision

The organization's vision is centered on empowering and creating opportunities for families and the broader community. Its mission commits to promoting resilience and empowerment among individuals and families by:

• Identifying and developing community opportunities
• Sharing information and resources
• Forming strategic partnerships
• Facilitating social engagement in a timely and inclusive manner

Programs and Services

Our Community Place specializes in delivering a variety of programs, many of which are funded through the Targeted Early Intervention (TEI) program by the New South Wales Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ). The services prioritize vulnerable community members, including isolated elderly women, young parents, children, and the homeless.

The organization plays a critical role in supporting those experiencing poverty and hardship by providing access to essential services and fostering social inclusion and community capacity building.

Governance and Funding

Operating as a child-safe, not-for-profit community organization, Our Community Place benefits from both government funding and local partnerships. Its strategic approach to service delivery aligns with evolving government policies that increasingly rely on non-government organizations to administer community programs.

Our Community Place Inc continues to be a vital resource in Lake Macquarie, leveraging its longstanding community presence to build social resilience and enhance the wellbeing of its diverse local population.

[1] https://ourcommunityplace.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/11d0e909-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077 [3] https://ourcommunityplace.org.au/about/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/11d0e909-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/9cc90996-ef61-ec11-8f8e-002248129e6e [5] https://www.ourcommunity.com.au/aboutus