The Yarrawonga Mulwala Community Learning Centre (YMCLC) is set to hold its annual general meeting today, October 23, at 5:30pm at ClubMulwala.
The event offers community members an opportunity to learn about the centre's achievements and future plans.
Executive Officer Julie-Anne Clarke highlighted YMCLC's significant growth over the past year, expanding programs and services to better support local needs.
“Key initiatives, such as the Community Shower Program and the Community Connections and Resilience Program, have made a positive impact by providing essential services to vulnerable members of the community,” Ms Clarke said.
“These programs help strengthen social connections and improve the quality of life for many local residents.”
YMCLC finished the financial year with a surplus, a result of effective financial management and successful grant applications. This surplus will be reinvested into the centre’s programs, ensuring continued support for the community.
A recent report by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria valued YMCLC's community contribution at over $6,293,905 in 2023.
YMCLC also continues to be a leading provider of vocational education and adult learning, offering a wide range of courses designed to help individuals build their skills and improve employment opportunities.
Notably, YMCLC attained another round of funding through the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Local Recovery Fund to host the Hospitality Essentials Program, which was initially developed in 2023.
The program now provides training across the Goulburn Murray, Murray Riverina, and Wimmera Mallee regions.
YMCLC also secured Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) and Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. These designations enable the centre to access more funding and offer donors tax-deductible options, further supporting the sustainability and growth of YMCLC’s services.
Ms Clarke said the AGM will celebrate the contributions of YMCLC’s dedicated volunteers, who have contributed over 2,500 hours to various community programs.
“Their support has been crucial to the success of YMCLC’s community-focused initiatives,” Ms Clarke added.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our staff, Board of Management members, stakeholders, funding partners, community members, students, and participants.
“Thank you for trusting us to deliver our programs and services.
“Without your support, we could not achieve our vision of empowering individuals to live their best lives.”
Community members are encouraged to attend the AGM.