About Us.

Who We Are.

West Footscray Neighbourhood House is a not-for-profit community organisation – which means, all money raised goes directly back into programs for our community; all programs and services are developed in response to community needs. We are run by local people who have a strong commitment to making our neighbourhood a better place for all. West Footscray Neighbourhood House believes in the power of a community development approach to transform and empower individuals and communities.

Our Vision.

A strong, vibrant, and just community that embraces its diversity, empowers all to achieve their potential and supports those in need.

Our Values.

Social connection

We provide opportunities for people to be connected to their community.

Inclusivity

We are a place where everyone is welcome.

Community participation

We work with and for our community to meet their needs.

Dignity

We treat everyone with dignity and respect.

Creativity

We think outside the box to find ways to achieve our goals.

Our History.

West Footscray Neighbourhood House was established in 1989 and started entirely volunteer-run. Neighbourhood houses exist to meet community needs and at that time council and university studies identified social isolation/limited opportunities for social interaction, a lack of adequate childcare, language barriers to participation, a high proportion of families on a low income, and a high proportion of single-parent families. The house was in an actual four-bedroom house in Barkly Street West Footscray before moving to its purpose-built space above West Footscray Library in 2006. Today community needs are remarkably similar and some of the early programs remain and have grown.