Our Purposes, Principles & Practice

ANHCA Purposes

To contribute to national policy and issues of common interest to Neighbourhood Houses and Centres
To promote and strengthen the national identity of Neighbourhood Houses and Centres
To enhance the quality, skills and knowledge of Neighbourhood Houses and Centres

The ANHCA community acts as a significant platform for social inclusion and is united by its focus on:

The practice of community development at a local level
Building community services controlled and managed by local people
Building the capacity of individuals, families and communities
Prevention and early intervention
The practice of social inclusion at a community, grass roots level
Building greater networks of support across our communities
Providing learning opportunities for the community
Fostering community leadership
Commitment to equality and opportunity for all people
Strengths-based practice – people who experience disadvantage can, and should, be actively engaged in the development of their own community and their own future directions
Local participation and direction in social research planning
The principles of social justice
The value provided by trained and skilled volunteer