About us
YCC is a vibrant community hub that provides education, training and support to more than 2000 people each week.
As one of the largest community-managed adult education providers in western metropolitan Melbourne, we offer a wide range of courses. But there’s much more. We provide community services such public access computers, occasional child care and service referrals. We can develop curriculum and manage projects. And our multipurpose rooms can be hired for meetings and functions.
History
For more than 35 years, YCC has been providing education, training and support programs to the people of western metropolitan Melbourne. But our history of community support and involvement is longer than that – it goes back to the origins of our buildings.
Our main site in Francis Street was originally home to the Yarraville State School, which was established in 1866 as a result of a strong, 10-year community campaign by local workers. When that was destroyed by fire in 1888, the current building was constructed, again through the local community banding together to fundraise and rebuild.
The primary school closed in the early 1970s and became the YCC in 1975, amalgamating with the Blackwood Street Neighbourhood House in 2000.
But serious deterioration put the original building and the YCC in jeopardy and, again, our local community rallied. In 2006 a major community campaign was launched and funding was raised to restore the building and expand the programs and services we offer.
The Blackwood Street site is also a heritage building in a unique setting. Originally an old quarryman’s cottage built in the 1800s, it sits in the middle of tranquil Beaton Park.
Services
Our aim is to build community resilience, so at YCC we offer a wide range of programs and services designed for all sectors of our community.
They include:
- short courses
- computers
- cooking
- gardening
- dance and movement
- disability, recreational and arts-based programs
- English as a Second Language programs at 6 sites
- child care
- computer, internet and office equipment access
- meeting rooms
- venue hire – hall, computer rooms, art rooms, commercial kitchen and more
- curriculum development and training delivery
- programs for disadvantaged young people
- special and targeted projects
- referrals and information.
To book on line go to our website http://www.ycc.net.au/ OR phone us 9687 1560 OR come in and see us @ 59 Francis Street, Yarraville.
Our facilities can be accessed by people of all abilities.
Going green
Caring for the community and the environment is a key focus for YCC. That’s why we’ve implemented a range of sustainability initiatives to lower our carbon footprint and reduce our impact on the planet.
Our best practice water management plan includes rainwater harvesting connected to cisterns and a drip system. We have installed a filter and swale in the car park to capture and filter pollutants from the first rain run.
Building design features include high levels of natural light, and integrated smart building systems for power, light and communication. Laminated glass has been use on all windows and doors. Outdoors, the surrounding areas have been landscaped using indigenous plants. And we understand the importance of recycling. Our waste management strategies include use of recycled paper and electronic files.
All our programs, services and activities reflect our commitment to environmental responsibility.
Not-for-profit status
YCC has official not-for-profit status, which means that any donations above $2 are fully tax deductible. All donations are gratefully accepted as they help us to expand our programs and services to assist those most in need.
Governance
YCC is a not-for-profit organisation that is managed by an independent board of local residents and people who use our centre. Daily management of YCC is the responsibility of employed staff, assisted by a team of dedicated volunteers.
