The Association was initially established to identify and address the needs of the Turkish community living and working in and around the southern suburbs. The first need identified for the community was that of a long day child care centre. In 1980 the Australian Turkish Child Care Centre, with funding from Federal and Local Governments, began its operations at 33 Balcombe Road, Mentone. 22 year
s it is still in place offering reposive community services and programs as well as facilities, equipment and venue for child care providers and playgroups. Following the success of the child care service, ATA embarked on establishing a number of welfare support services identified by the community and the Committee. It also expanded its service range to include any Turkish person living in Victoria. Counselling and services are provided in a number of ways including, in person, over the phone or in clients' homes. The Service Areas we can assisst with are:
parenting
supporting family relationships
improving parent-child relationships
referrals
child developmnet and social connectness
provision of home support
group work
counselling
accessing additional services
family conferencing and consultation
social skills development & support
Service Delivery includes:
Parenting Support Groups - Provide the opportunity wwith other parents and carers n the lcoal community, meet our family servcies tam and participate in regular information and recereational activitfies
Positive Parenting Service - Sessions are run throughout the year with a focus on promoting child devleopment and supporting family members to increase their knowledge and awareness around parenting isssues
Information and referral - OUr support workers are able to assist in provideing informatoin and/or referrals that may be required by families
Case Management - Family support services are avaiable to familieis with children of all ages
Play Groups - gathering the family, children/parents/carers together to enjoy time out from the family home and engage with others in the community. Play time provides social engagement, exercise and a time to learn in a friendly, fun environment.
