The Avenue Neighbourhood House aims to be a vital point of contact in our neighbourhood, building stronger, more connected communities.
About us
The Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley is a non-profit organisation governed by a volunteer committee, and managed and operated on a day-to-day basis by the House manager supported by part-time staff. We offer many opportunities for people to connect with their community through participation in classes, courses, information sessions, and workshops.
Our statement of purpose
Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley is a welcoming organisation that encourages personal development and community participation.
Our statement of commitment to child safety
The Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley has a commitment to zero tolerance of child abuse. We support and respect all children and young people and are committed to providing a child safe environment. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, the cultural safety of children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, and to providing a safe environment for children with a disability.
Our strategic plan
Read our Strategic Plan 2023 - 2025.
Our history
The Avenue Neighbourhood House began in 1982 as a result of Christine Fensham's vision for a neighbourhood house in Blackburn. The Avenue originally began as an outreach of the Avenue Uniting Church, with Christine supported by a small group of women from the Church. In 1984 the House was incorporated and became a legal entity in its own right.
The House continued to flourish in Blackburn until October 2007 when the House's lease expired and the City of Whitehorse offered the House the opportunity of re-locating to Eley Park Community Centre. The City of Whitehorse, with the support of both the State and Federal Governments, funded major renovations at Eley Park to accommodate the extensive program of The Avenue Neighbourhood House.
Our volunteer program
The Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley runs a large and well-recognised volunteer program. When you apply, our volunteer leader will interview you and if there are vacancies we will place you in a position you will enjoy in one or more of the following areas:
Reception
Catering
Child Care
Class Assistant
Transport
Sub Committees
Our committee of management
Garry Neeman
President
Jenny Chalmers
Nick Van Bronswijk
Vice President
Anita Wright-Neville
Colin Wilson-Evered
Secretary
Valerie Elliott
Treasurer
Our sub-committees
We have a number of sub-committees and are always keen to hear from people interested in getting involved. Sub-committee participation also entitles volunteers to further discounts.
Our supporters
The Avenue Neighbourhood House @ Eley is funded by the Victorian State Government and City of Whitehorse. We also receive sponsorship support for our youth programs from McGrath Real Estate in Blackburn.
Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.