Community Services

Creating Capable Communities - History

Creating Capable Communities: From Foundations to Sustainable Communities

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." (Mead in Shields 1991:240)

In 1970 a small group of people who were local volunteers got together to share their ideas about supporting others in their local community. This was the start of the work at Family Life which over time has created a vision and embodied its experience and learning of local needs into the work of the 'Creating Capable Communities' project.

Since that time Family Life has sought to work with those families who may be the most disadvantaged in the community and therefore at most risk of social and economic poverty. Relationships have been built over time with families who reside in the local public housing estates of Melbourne's Southern Suburbs through the availability of a range of counselling and support programs which seek to meet the needs of these families. In 1997, the tragic and unexpected deaths of three single mothers residing in the housing estate prompted a much needed conversation between fellow residents and Family Life raising the question of 'what more can be done?'

Funds were sought from the Department of Family & Community Services 'Stronger Families & Communities Strategy' to work alongside these families and their local community for a period of three years. The key objective was to develop a holistic, integrated approach focusing on building the resourcefulness and the capacities of families and the broader context in which they live. In essence, creating a community which is safe, healthy and supportive for parents and their children.

While the Federal Government funding has now finished, Creating Capable Communities will continue.

The weekly Homework Club and Breakfast Club at the Dunkley Estate will continue as will the community and school holiday activity days. At Keith Street Community House, the weekly craft and cooking classes, coffee and chat group and community barbecues will also continue, as will the Elwood estate playgroup for young mums. Why? Because residents themselves, supported by Family Life staff and volunteers now take an active part in planning and running the activities

This is a successful transition to resident leadership in capable communities. We thank the Australian Government for the financial assistance to make this happen.