Vermont South Neighbourhood House is a vibrant Learn Local provider in Outer East Melbourne. VSNH supports a wide range of learners and community members through Learn Local programs, lifestyle and recreation activities and a social enterprise café and catering service.
The social enterprise Community Café, is where community members can meet and be introduced to the centre. The friendly and welcoming environment of the café is where staff can meet up with new participants and guide them into programs and activities.
The Community Café is the ideal place for hands-on learning by participating in the Learn Local Hospitality-Basic Work Skills and Introduction to Barista and Coffee Making Skills programs. The Hospitality Basic Work Skills program teaches food preparation, cooking methods, menu planning and work safety. The program is facilitated by a brilliant trainer, who loves sharing their skills and passion for the industry and the café attracts a wide range of community members.
Future plans for the café include creating a community garden to source fresh produce for the menu.
Another stand-out program is the Living our Best Life Program, which tackles isolation and loneliness. This program has been trialed and established through CHAOS (Community Houses Association of the Outer Eastern Suburbs). Participants are socially subscribed to the program from Pharmacies, GP’s and allied health professionals and are supported by the VSNH volunteer Community Connectors. Through this program, individuals' needs and interests are identified and people are supported to reconnect to the community. Activities can include excursions to the library, participation in Learn Local programs and visiting the social enterprise café, all with the aim of building connectedness and a sense of belonging.
Carol I’Anson and the Vermont South Neighbourhood House team are committed to making a positive impact through supporting people to connect and work towards their aspirations.