The Tailem Bend Community Centre was established in 1987 by a group of like minded, committed community members who volunteered their time and skills to develop a central meeting place for all community members. The philosophy was simple - create a kind and welcoming place, central to the community, where people would feel comfortable to come if they were in need. From this it developed into what
we have today, an integral location for community development. While the philosophy was simple, the community benefit is astronomical. The Tailem Bend Community Centre is a not for profit organisation, run by a dedicated Volunteer Management Committee, with the assistance of a dedicated group of volunteer staff. A paid coordinator is employed four (4) days per week to undertake administration duties. The Management Committee successfully managed the Centre for sixteen of its twenty-three years without paid staff, before a Coordinator was employed in 2001. The majority of the Centre's income comes from government grants, ongoing and one off. Grant opportunities are access when available. In 2001, a collaboration between the Tailem Bend Community Centre, Tailem Bend Hospital and the Coorong District Council was successful in obtaining ongoing funding from Home and Community Care (HACC). The funding was used to run a range of programs at the hospital and Community Centre and also enabled the Centre to employ a Coordinator for four (4) days per week. The Coorong District Council auspices the Centre's HACC funding and acts as the host employee for the Coordinator. For further details of the Centre's funding structure please see our strategic plan. The Centre is a hub for Community activities for local residents and community organisations alike. The strength of the Centre is in its openness and flexibility. It aims to respond to the community needs in a relaxed and informal style that encourages active participation. We hope that people will be encouraged, through centre involvement, to develop and enrich their lives, recognise their strengths and improve their weaknesses, at the same time accepting and appreciating the differences between people. The Centre provides a venue for the community to meet people in their local area, make new friends, learn new skills and develop networks of support and care that extend beyond the walls of the house and contributes to the well-being of the whole community
