SPAN Community House Inc. · We had a strong field of people interested in the job and selected Colleen Duggan because we believed she was the best applicant and person to lead SPAN

SPAN Community House Inc.

Annual Report July 2013 to June 2014

SPAN Community House Inc. (SPAN) Address: 64 Clyde Street, Thornbury 3071 Phone: (03) 9480 1364

[email protected] Website: www.spanhouse.org Facebook: facebook.com/spanhouse

Reg. No A0051048Y

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.spanhouse.org/

SPAN Community House Inc. Annual Report 2013-2014 • 1

Table of contents

Acknowledgements ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2

Mission statement …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3

SPAN strategic plan 2014-2017 ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4

Our people ……………………………………….……………………………………………………………………………………….. 8

President report ……………………………….……………………………………………………………………………………….. 9

Manager report ………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………….. 10

Administration and records officer report ….……………………………………………………………………………… 11

Program Co-ordinator (HACC and volunteer) report …………………………………………………………………. 12

Programs and activities …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 14

Treasurer report ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

Auditor report ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..... 19

Student feedback ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 25

Student surveys 2013 ..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26

SPAN events ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 27


Acknowledgements

SPAN Community House Inc. (SPAN) is a dynamic hub of community and adult learning in the heart of Thornbury, providing access to innovative resources through learning programs and community development activities. Our programs cover a range of areas, from cooking to computers, pilates to gardening.

We work in partnership with local businesses and organisations to offer skills development and pathways into further study or employment.

We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri people, who are the traditional custodians of this land. We would also like to pay our respect to the Elders, both past and present of the Kulin Nation and to extend that respect to all Indigenous Australians.

We acknowledge the following:

State and Local Government

Adult, Community and Further Education (ACFE) Board

Darebin City Council (DCC)

Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD)

Department of Health

Department of Human Services (DHS)

Partnerships Partnerships are key to the development and provision of some programs and activities.

Darebin Neighbourhood House Network

SecondBite

Women’s Health in the North (WHIN)

Individuals and organisations Many local small businesses have supported us throughout the year:

Alphington Community Centre Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres (ANHLC) Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) Clyde Street Kindergarten Commerce Press Darebin City Council Building Services staff Darebin Community Legal Centre Jika Jika Community Centre Leader Newspaper North East Neighbourhood House Network PRACE (Preston Reservoir Adult Community Education)

Preston Neighbourhood House Learning Centre Reservoir Neighbourhood House Simon Gough Thornbury Horticulture and Design Thornbury Women’s Neighbourhood House Tim Beacham, Computer Solutions University of the Third Age – Darebin (U3A)

* Thank you to Judi Herkes for report layout anddesign. Judi is a volunteer and Word/Excel student 2014.


Mission Statement

SPAN Community House Inc. seeks to contribute to the development of a sustainable and connected local community through educational and recreational activities. Our staff and volunteers are committed to equal opportunity, diversity and community development.

SPAN’s values are:

• the diversity among our staff, volunteers, participants

• social justice and the empowerment of marginalised groups

• participation without barriers

• environmental sustainability

• sustainable service provision and business practice

• the health and wellbeing of our community.


SPAN strategic plan 2014-2017

The SPAN Community House strategic plan was updated in 2014 covering the three years to 2017. The strategic plan was developed after consultation with staff, volunteers, students, clients and community members, as well as referring to the changing demographics in the area. The strategic plan is broken into three phases involving rescue and financial consolidation, building capability and sustainability, and developing opportunities. The goals of the strategic plan are to develop and maintain governance and organisational health, inclusion and wellbeing, sustainability, partnership and networks. 1. Phase one – Rescue and financial consolidation phase where the emphasis will be on

rebuilding the financial capability of the organisation (to June 2014). 2. Phase two – Build the broad capability of the organisation to deliver and manage a wide range

of programs and experiences to the local community. Streamline the administrative and operation systems of the organisation (to December 2014).

3. Phase three – Take up existing opportunities once systems and processes, staff and volunteer capability are in place (ongoing).

Goals Develop and maintain: 1. Governance and organisational health—Rebuild a sustainable organisation through securing a

strong financial position and improving compliance, systems and processes, and use of technology.

1.1. Board 1.2. Staff 1.3. Volunteers 1.4. Finance

2. Inclusion—Provide suitable and timely activities for a diverse range of residents: aged, young

professional, young families, including residents with a disability, and residents on a low income.

3. Health and wellbeing—Promote healthy living to the community. 4. Sustainability—Embed sustainability into all of SPAN’s operations and activities. 5. Partnerships and networks—Work with other local organisations and local government.


Key result area:

1. Governance and organisational health

1.1. Board

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Diversity of board members and

skills President, board and manager Ongoing

Have a succession plan President, board and manager Ongoing

Have a skilled board President and manger Ongoing

Have a complete set of policies

which are reviewed regularly

Board (governance sub-

committee) and manager Phase one ongoing

Constitution is reviewed Board (governance sub-

committee) Phase one ongoing

1.2 Staff

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Staff have high level skills,

including technical knowledge and

skills

Board, manager and staff Ongoing

Staff are committed to principles

of diversity and community

development

Board and manager Phase one ongoing

Manager has strong leadership

and consultation skills and has

strong teamwork skills

Board Ongoing

Staff are appropriately involved in

operational decisions Manager and staff Ongoing

1.3 Volunteers

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Maintain a well-trained and

involved cohort of volunteers

Manager and volunteer

co-ordinator Ongoing


1.4 Finance

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Finalisation of 2013-2014 Budget Manager and treasurer February 2014

Finalisation of Semester 1, 2014

course schedule Manager February 2014

Monthly course actual vs. schedule

tracking sheet Manager March 2014

Room rental sub-committee President and manager March 2014

Garden shed structure finalisation Manager and board March 2014

2. Inclusion

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Provide high quality ACFE courses

for residents on low incomes Manager and staff Phase one ongoing

Develop innovative fee for service

courses and maintain existing

popular courses

Manager and staff Phase three

Develop HACC programs and

positions for residents on low

income or with a disability

Manager and HACC Co-

ordinator Phase three ongoing

Look for opportunities for

attracting a broader range of the

community

Manager, staff, volunteers and

board Phase three

3. Health and wellbeing

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Look for partnerships Board, manager and staff Phase three

Run activities for new

demographics Manager and staff Phase three


4. Sustainability

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Sustainable processes within

operations Board, manager and staff Ongoing

Develop garden using sustainable

and good garden principles

Board, manager, staff and

volunteers

Phase one ongoing

Garden will be named and

officially opened Board and manager Phase two

5. Partnerships and networks

ACTIVITY WHO WHEN

Develop new partnerships,

including with local businesses Manager and board Ongoing

Develop new and existing

networks Manager and staff Ongoing

Review date: April 2017


Our people

Staff Tutors Board Day Volunteers

Carmen Tommasi Anita Carcour Bernie Scullion Antoine Enichteyan

Colleen Duggan Barbara Cole Boy Yakobus Muliana Barbara Cole

Renate Tratter Bruce Hadfield Denis Shanahan Carmen De Fazio

Sarah McNamee Carmen De Fazio Elisa Grassa Cris Papa

Stacia Cameron Cherrie Roe Jacinta Agostinelli David Jacobson

Sue Harris Danielle Arif Judy Bush Guio Arias

Vikki Doig Debi Slinger Kala McInnes Jackie Benzel

Flowers Vassette Linda O’Connor Judi Herkes

Gerry Kruyer Myrta Hacon Margaret Harris

Katie Roberts Sean Pickard Mark Robinson

Mileta Rien Rowee Delgado

Rani Hughes

Soheir Youseff

Sudaya Elmhirst


President

When developing our strategic plan this year we decided on a three-phase plan: a rescue and financial consolidation phase, a building capability phase, and a final phase for taking up opportunities. I am pleased to say that we have completed the first phase and have moved into a period of stability and capability building. SPAN’s financial situation is improving, we have engaged a new manager, staff and volunteers report job satisfaction and progress, and the House is bustling, colourful and pleasantly noisy.

We have many people to thank for our current strengthening position: we thank Colleen Duggan who joined us as interim manager in October 2013 and who worked without much thought to the uncertain nature of her job committing whole-heartedly to SPAN’s wellbeing; we thank the permanent staff, Carmen Tommasi and Sarah McNamee, and the volunteers and tutors who hung in there in the face of uncertainty and disruption; and we thank the board of directors who have had to make some difficult and unprecedented decisions to keep the organisation steady.

Some achievements for the year: with great excitement we signed off on the 2014-2017 strategic plan referred to above. We have updated our constitution, and all members will have received either an electronic or hard copy of this. We have moved to online banking, updated our website, and increased our use of social media.

We have engaged a volunteer with a professional horticultural background to guide the continued development of the garden. Look out early next year for the grand garden opening!

Programs and partnerships are growing. Our board has had an injection of energy and enthusiasm with the acceptance of four new members, all with professional backgrounds, and three of the four with strong local connections. We have built up our membership base and take this opportunity to thank you for your decision to become a member. An organisation is only as strong as its members so we urge you to renew your membership in 2015. Perhaps our greatest achievement for the year has been the process of interviewing and hiring a new manager for SPAN.

The management of a community house is a complex, hands-on job requiring flexibility, a certain toughness and yet an awareness of other people’s uniqueness. We had a strong field of people interested in the job and selected Colleen Duggan because we believed she was the best applicant and person to lead SPAN into an exciting and prosperous future. The board is excited about SPAN’s future and looks forward to working with Colleen so SPAN can achieve great things for the community.

I hope you all—members, staff, volunteers, program participants, stakeholders, and community members—continue to support SPAN by attending our functions and participating in our classes, workshops and activities. All SPAN’s activities are geared towards making our community a better place.

Jacinta Agostinelli

STUDENT QUOTES

Word and Excel

Word and Excel course gave me the confidence, skills and ability

to get a job.


Manager

The benefit of writing an annual report is that it allows time for reflection on what has been achieved throughout the year and what challenges SPAN has faced.

Government funding from every level is tightening up, and compliance issues are growing constantly. As Neighbourhood Houses specialise in many activities and run with a small number of staff and volunteers, this puts a burden on the

organisation that larger education and service providers don’t face.

Neighbourhood Houses also work with client groups who require a little more time and attention throughout the day which often increases the time taken to achieve tasks. But the benefit in that is that SPAN is a friendly, welcoming and non-threatening environment for community members to use.

SPAN has increased our fee for service courses to provide a wider variety of activities to cater for the changing community. We continue to run our Learn Local programs providing subsidised courses to learner groups to enable those students to advance further into work and study. Courses that remain popular, such as exercise classes, still attract many groups into the House each week.

The variety of programs offered at SPAN is impressive. Covering areas such skills for work and study, digital literacy, creative activities, health and wellbeing, cooking, gardening, activities for kids and families, and many free activities provided by partner organisations and by SPAN.

As well as providing activities, SPAN has continued to develop and strengthen partnerships with other service providers. It is important that these relationships are maintained to ensure our visibility in the community, ensure that activities, services and courses are not duplicated, enable us to make referrals to other organisations, but most importantly to ensure our high quality of service is maintained.

SPAN is actively involved with groups such as the Adult Community Education (ACE) Peaks Working Group, Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres (ANHLC) and the Darebin Neighbourhood House Network (DNHN) to lobby local and state government officials and members of parliament to improve the support for ACE providers and Houses.

SPAN is a vibrant and positive community organisation which is well supported by a great team of staff, tutors, volunteers and board members.

I wish to thank the volunteer board members for their hard work and commitment. Thank you also to the dedicated staff members and tutors who provide a high level of service at SPAN. Special thanks are reserved for the wonderful volunteers at SPAN. They work in the office, the garden, the kitchen, on the board and at special events. It is inspiring to see these people give their time to SPAN and to the local community.

Colleen Duggan

Pilates

Excellent instructor

who is able to modify content

according to the needs and limitations of

the group.


Administration and records officer

Given this is the first time that I have written a report for SPAN, I thought I would commence with how I arrived at SPAN. In 2012, I was presented with reviewing my employment status, which often occurs as you get older. With that came the desire to diversify into another community sector industry. So with this train of thought in December 2013, I arrived at SPAN. Previously my working

life centred around community legal centres - managing and developing programs. The first months at SPAN were a little rocky as I had to learn a whole new field of work. So what has occurred since those early days...? In the last twelve months there have been significant changes at SPAN, new staff, new tutors, new programs, new policies, new equipment and new volunteers.

My primary role at SPAN is the management of administration areas. Given that role my day can be a mixed bag of tasks. A day where you attend to room hire enquiries, contacting students or tutors, sorting out why the alarm lights may be flashing, or why the printer will not operate. Other areas that I attend to are ACFE and fee for service courses. This requires varying administrative support; one core function is to manage the data entry via an industry based program – VETtrak. Every Tuesday, Mark our skilled Trakker volunteer arrives, and we have interesting data discussions. This may sound boring however Mark and I find it riveting. In our next life we hope to work at OzSoft. Some of our office volunteers also see the benefits of data entry chit chat; yes we are a strange and weird bunch at SPAN.

I am also the lassie who advocates for system changes, for example we have updated enrolment forms, and payment policies at SPAN. SPAN reviewed many of the programs that we offered. Some hard decisions had to be made to remain viable. Change is always hard to implement but I think it has worked for an improved service.

Other areas that I enjoy are working with designing the SPAN brochure. Vikki who was the programs co-ordinator and now living in sunny Scotland always presented us with new and interesting ideas or images. Some of these promotion tasks are now handled by Rowee who volunteers at SPAN updating our website and course flyers.

During quieter times, I am the staff member who tries to play around with SPAN images, or new SPAN words for example what courses could we offer that will attract people’s interest: SPAN-ish at SPAN, SPAM cooking classes @ SPAN, Spinning at SPAN, all worthy options, but they haven’t gotten off the ground yet.

SPAN staff and tutors are supported by our volunteers and the board. This is always appreciated by staff. SPAN employs three part time staff and a finance officer who comes in once a week. Without the support of volunteers we would not achieve what we do. Take a look around their work is everywhere, in the garden, the kitchen, rooms cleaned and set up, essential areas stocked up and a smiling face when you arrive at reception. Then there is the board that comes in after-hours discussing, developing and steering us on the right track.

So I would like to thank you all for putting up with my grumbles. Thanks to IT- Tim, U3A, Darebin City Council support staff, and OzSoft support team. The final lines

are preserved* for Sue, Sarah, Stacia, Vikki and Colleen, tutors and SPAN students - grazie molto. *Learn to preserve or Learn to preserve me…will be offered Term 1, 2015.

Carmen Tommasi

Writers’ Workshop

Good experience

with like mind

strangers who become friends, and

excellent advice on technical points.


Program Co-ordinator

The Volunteer Program at SPAN is stronger than ever! We have a fantastic, committed group of volunteers that has grown and continues to grow with regular interest from the community. Both the day and board volunteers contribute generously to the House supporting SPAN to be a welcoming, vibrant, supportive and creative place for the community to engage.

Barbara, Margaret, Mark, Antoine, Guio, Jackie, Barb S, Sean and

Carmen D are our long standing volunteers who support the house in a wide range of areas: administration, reception, housekeeping, gardening, special events, tutoring and much more. Since our last report Cris and Judi joined the office team, contributing their time and skills predominately supporting front reception roles and providing administration support.

Rowee Delgado became an invaluable addition to the all-important promotions and marketing role. Rowee has assisted SPAN with improving our website and Facebook site.

David Jacobson came on board in June 2014, recruited as the new Garden Volunteer Co-ordinator, bringing his professional horticultural skills (Thornbury Horticulture and Design) to support the already established passionate gardeners. David is working in consultation with management and the garden group to plan, structure and ‘grow’ the future potential of the garden. Our long standing volunteers have welcomed our new additions creating a very healthy volunteering environment at SPAN.

All volunteers were recognised during National Volunteer Week in May 2014 and the House celebrated and recognised the enormous contribution with a lunch on the 15th May 2014. There is no doubt that without the support of the volunteers we couldn’t achieve the great things we do.

Open day

With the generous support of the House and board volunteers and tutors who came to promote their programs, we teamed up to put on a great Open Day in October 2013. We opened the House to the public whilst the kindergarten next door held a fete. Showcasing our artistic, creative, gardening, learning and health activities, it was a great dry run for future Open Day’s at SPAN.

Home and Community Care (HACC)

My role as HACC Co-ordinator has continued to encourage and advocate for providing opportunities for an all-inclusive and all abilities house welcoming new participants who require additional support. By supporting residents who experience financial and social disadvantage and those from other marginalised groups, we continue to break down barriers to participation and provide health and well-being opportunities for the broader community.

Web Development

Knowledge and skill of trainer to

teach complex theories simply.

Training at a good pace,

learning something new each

week.


Our monthly community lunches continue to attract new people from the community each month. Carmen’s freshly cooked meals along with the support of the volunteers ensure this is a welcoming and supportive environment for people to gather and make connections. The Christmas lunch was a great success with community members coming together with a shared plate, staff in dress-ups and our delightful Santa, Ron, giving the day an extra special cheer!

We have had ongoing success with our bi-annual High Tea event for Carers, November 2013 and May 2014. This special event supports family carers in our community who due to the nature of the demands the caring role places on them, have thoroughly enjoyed the decadent High Tea, had a chance for some pampering and the opportunity to meet new people. We invited carer support representatives from local agencies to give participants support or answer questions on services for carers.

We continue to broaden our partnerships and networks within the Darebin region facilitating relationships with services and agencies. By doing so we are reaching a broader demographic, reaching a greater number of residents to make them aware of the opportunities and supports at our Community House.

Sarah McNamee


Programs and activities

Website Development Course 2013

With a bit of spare time up my sleeve and 30 plus years of teaching in the IT area I thought why not find out if a local community centre could put my IT teaching experience to some use in the form of an evening class in a subject area that I have always been passionate about; Website Development. After a quick internet search I found SPAN nearby and got in contact with the SPAN manager. She was super excited that someone would volunteer their time offering to run a course

that would teach potential learners with little computer experience how to build basic websites without having to purchase anything at all. All they needed was a computer with an internet connection at home. I quickly pulled together a course outline for a 16 week course, presented it to SPAN and that was advertised locally.

To be honest I wasn’t sure that I could get the numbers up to run a class or that people in our community would be interested in learning how it was done. I was pleasantly surprised when SPAN let me know that they had a full class ready to go so I busily started writing detailed but easy-to-understand on-line notes for the learners hoping they would not drop out as the course progressed each week.

As it turned out the class was a really friendly group of people that got on well together. They inspired each other with their eagerness to learn and worked co-operatively to solve each other’s web development structuring and formatting problems. Over the 16 week course their skills improved to the point where at the end of the course they were able to create of their own online websites.

They all enjoyed this course and all said that they want to go on to further their skills by signing up for an intermediate web development course in 2014. Gerry Kruyer

Beginners Computer Course

This course was started to fill a gap that existed. SPAN realised that some students who enrolled in the Introduction to Computers course found this course far beyond their capabilities as they had no prior experience working with computers, consequently a lot dropped out of this course.

Rather than losing these people all together we decided to offer this back to basics course. Student numbers were kept low so that more one on one time was provided. This smaller class allowed people to feel more comfortable, as they did not feel like they were a burden on the rest of the class when they needed support, or when they were a bit behind the other students.

After completing this course, students were then able to progress to the Introduction to Computers course. Office staff advised feedback from students for this course was very positive as it enabled them to overcome their fears about computers. Barb Cole


Program and activities

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Confidence and assertiveness

This class developed skills in building an individual’s self-confidence and assertiveness in a group setting.

Gentle exercise

A low impact class that strengthened the body improved fitness and coordination.

Tai Chi

An evening class which relaxed and rejuvenated the mind and body, using a series of gentle movements. This released stress and develops strength, flexibility and concentration.

Tai Chi for health

Weekly day class supporting students from all skills level, fitness and age group. Previously part of the Darebin Healthy Moves Program this class continues to support people with chronic illness diabetes, arthritis and balance difficulties.

Self Defence for women

This class enabled young women to build confidence and self-awareness through martial arts techniques.

CREATIVE

Artistic development

For new and continuing art students who brought their own projects and had the opportunity to develop ideas in a supported studio environment. As well as self-directed projects, there were some advanced instruction and theory, plus regular still life and some life drawing.

SPAN writers workshop

SPAN writers shared their life experiences and developed their own stories or poems for the bi-annual publication. The group shared constructive feedback within the diverse group of writers and received tips from a qualified and published tutor.

Transparent mosaics

A Saturday class where students designed their own mosaics piece. This class will return in 2015 so make sure you book in. It will be worth the wait.



SKILLS FOR STUDY AND THE WORK PLACE

Introduction to floristry

This course introduced learners to the principles of floral design, basic floristry techniques, assembly of 'products', safe work practices, basic floristry products, and promoted flower and plant recognition.

Beginners computers (Level 1)

The beginners class was a small class which allowed more one on one time with the tutor.

It’s about learning how to drive in the fast lane at a regulated speed.

Introduction to computers

Students learnt MS Office programs to a competent level. How to use a mouse, keyboard skills, save documents and store them effectively, insert pictures and borders into a document, print and use Windows, basic use of search engines available on the internet.

Intermediate social media, internet and email

Expanded use of the internet how to locate information via the World Wide Web (www), develop research skills, and apply for jobs online, enhanced employment or study skills. Create bookmarks, print from the Internet, set up email accounts, open and send attachments, netiquette.

iPad basics

This was a partnership class with the Brotherhood of St Laurence and SPAN. Senior students were shown through and how to make the most of their iPad. They learnt how to download, use Apps, search the web, use the calendar and receive emails.

Introduction to Microsoft Office 2010

Students learnt how to effectively make use of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint programs.

Intermediate Word and Excel 2010

Students learnt how to use MS Word and Excel programs to higher level. They learnt how to create Excel spread sheets and work with formulas. The word component of this class showed how to develop your own newsletters, create mail list and use of Excel functions in word documents.

Web development beginners

For students interested in a career in web design or simply curious about how it’s done, this course gave a solid grounding in HTML and CSS.

Web development beginners to intermediate

Students with little or no knowledge joined this class. They were shown how to construct a website to a solid grounding in

Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). By the end of the course, students were equipped to either to build a website, host a website and publish a completed website on the Internet.



GROW IT COOK IT

Introduction to cooking (Mystery box)

Always a SPAN favourite this class provided students, passionate about cooking, to learn new recipes, safe food preparation and storage, hospitality and cooking techniques. This class was a combination of demonstration and hands-on.

Children’s biscuit making class

A two hour class, with Carmen, where children learnt how to make their favorite biscuits.

Pasta making

Master Chef Carmen De Fazio provided an evening pasta making class.

COMMUNITY AND YOU (LOW COST AND LOCAL)

Community lunch

SPAN community lunches are held on the second Wednesday of the month. Lunches are generally a three course meal and low cost: $5.00.

SPAN high tea

Held two times a year, this is a bi-annual event for carers who are spoiled by Carmen De Fazio’s famous high tea baking. This is a HACC supported event. Free event.

Food gardening for health

For local residents to learn, share their skills and knowledge in the SPAN garden.

This weekly garden group end their session with a shared lunch and frequent laughter. Free event.

Legal information workshop

Wills and Powers of Attorneys seminar presented by Darebin Community Legal Centre. This seminar was held during Law Week. These will become an annual event at SPAN providing two legal sessions per annum. Free event.

Managing money – Women’s Health in the North (WHIN)

Partnership program with WHIN, providing financial information, advice and support. By the end of the six week workshop students were more financially literate and left with an increased knowledge and understanding of their financial rights and how to manage debt or credit loans. Free workshops facilitated by WHIN project officer Toni Bentley.

SPAN Community House Inc. Annual Report 2013 – 2014 • 18

Treasurer

The summary of SPAN Community House financials for the period of 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014 is supplied here for your perusal, audited and

endorsed as satisfactorily compliant by Eugene Odachowski from JP Hardwick and Associates.

Cash position at the 30th June 2014 was $82,177 in 2013-2014 compared to $111,639 last year. This drop in liquidity provides challenges for the SPAN Community House operations in 2014-2015, where SPAN’s Board of Directors and newly

appointed permanent manager will endeavour to consolidate our position for SPAN’s future.

The above figures are attributable to a period of disruption in the 2012-2013 financial year. SPAN Community House has increased financial stability in 2013-2014: although this year SPAN has a slightly decreased income of $226,617 compared with the previous year of $230,645, total expenses were $217,925 in 2013-2014 compared to $265,585 in 2012-2013, contributing to an $8,692 net profit, reversing the $34,940 deficit for the financial year 2012-2013. This reversal can be attributed to the efforts of SPAN’s Board of Directors, our manager Colleen Duggan stepping in as interim manager after Sue Harris, and the perseverance of the members of staff plus SPAN’s contracted bookkeeper, Stacia Cameron, Peter Drinan, our professional tutors and the invaluable help of our volunteers.

SPAN Community House now is presented with the opportunity and the momentum for building a more sustainable income stream in 2014-2015, while keeping the organisation structure lean and efficient. Further, the development of DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status for Neighbourhood House through the Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association (ANHCA) Public Fund will also provide an opportunity for SPAN to raise its income profile.

SPAN has completed a new strategic plan predicated on information and advice from the SPAN Community House report “planning for our educational provision” compiled by John Sheen of CWCC consultancy with the help of staff and board members. SPAN also is presenting a new constitution that is compliant with Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) *new simple rules for this Annual General Meeting (AGM) to ratify.

This renewed outlook for the future is very valuable to SPAN Community House. I am confident that SPAN has successfully navigated these stormy waters and is ready to consolidate our position in this financial year, 2014-2015.

Thank you to our community, to our volunteers, our staff, manager and members of the Board of Directors for all their contribution and hard work. SPAN is our house and together we will always make it better.

*On 26 November 2012, the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (and its associated Regulations) replaced the Associations Incorporation Act 1981. Linda O’Connor

Tai Chi for Health

The friendly environment and staff are very helpful.

The teacher

is very professional, positive and the class is excellent.


INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF SPAN COMMUNITY HOUSE INC.

We have audited the Financial Statements, being the Statement by Committee, Profit and Loss

Account, Balance Sheet, Statement of Cash Flows and notes to and forming part of the financial

statements for the year ended 30th June 2014. The Association’s Committee is responsible for the

financial statements. We have conducted an independent audit of these financial statements in

order to express an opinion on them to the member of the Association.

Our audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide

reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. Our

procedures included examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and

other disclosures in the financial statements, and the evaluation of accounting policies and

significant accounting estimates. These procedures included have been undertaken to form an

opinion whether, in all material respects, the financial statements are presented fairly in

accordance with Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting

requirements and statutory requirements so as to present a view which is consistent with our

understanding of the Association and economic entity's financial position, the results of their

operations and their cash flows.

The audit opinion expressed in this report has been formed on the above basis.

Audit Opinion

In our opinion, the Financial Statements of SPAN Community House Inc. is properly drawn up:

(a) so as to give a true and fair view of:

(i) the state of affairs as at 30th June 2014, and the profit and cash flows for the year ended 30 t h June 2014;

and

(ii) In accordance with the provisions of Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012.

(b) In accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional

reporting requirements.

Dated at Melbourne this 30th day of August, 2014.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• (signed)

EUGENE ODACHOWSKI

REGISTERED COMPANY AUDITOR (Reg No: 9182) Unit 7, 617-643 Spencer Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 Telephone No: (03) 9376 3455 Facsimile No: (03) 9329 5747


SPAN COMMUNITY HOUSE INC. Notes to the Financial Statements For the year ended 30 June, 2014

Note 1: Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

This financial report is a special purpose financial report prepared in order to satisfy the

financial report preparation requirements of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012.

The members have determined that the Association is not a reporting entity.

Basis of Preparation

The report has been prepared in accordance with the following applicable Accounting Standards and Urgent Issues Group Interpretations:

AASB 101: Presentation of Financial Statements Cash AASB 107: Flow Statements AASB 108: Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors Events AASB 110: A fter the Balance Sheet Date AASB 1031: Materiality AASB 1048: Interpretation and Application Standards

No other Australian Accounting Standards, International Accounting Standards Urgent Issues Group Interpretations or other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Board have been applied.

Reporting Basis and Conventions

The financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis and is based on historic costs.

The following is a summary of the material accounting policies adopted by the Association in the presentation of the financial reports. The accounting policies have been consistently applied, unless otherwise stated.

Accounting Policies

(a) Income Tax The Association is a "not for profit" entity and is not subject to income tax.

(b) Plant and Equipment Plant and equipment are measured on the cost basis.

The carrying amount of plant and equipment is reviewed annually by directors to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount from these assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash flows that will be received from the asset's employment and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash flows have been discounted to their present values in determining recoverable amounts.


SPAN COMMUNITY HOUSE INC. Notes to the Financial Statements For the year ended 30 June, 2014

Increases in the carrying amount arising on revaluations are credited to the revaluation reserve in equity. Decreases that offset previous increases of the same asset are charged against fair value reserves directly in equity; all other decreases are charged to the income statement. Each year the difference between depreciation based on the assets original cost is transferred from the revaluation reserve to retained earnings.

(c) Depreciation The depreciable amount of all fixed assets, is depreciated on a diminishing value basis over their useful lives to the Association commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.

The assets' residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

An asset's carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset's carrying amount is greater than its estimated carrying amount.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount. These gains or losses are included in the income statement. When revalued assets are sold, amounts included in the revaluation reserve relating to that asset are transferred to retained earnings.

(d) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with banks or financial institutions, other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within short term borrowings in current liabilities on the balance sheet.


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014

2014 2013

$ $

Income State Recurrent Grants 109,253 103,320

ACFE Delivery 17,597 26,027 State Non Recurrent Grants 2,000 - ACFE Capital Equipment Grant - 8,400 State Capital Grants 2,500 5,000 Local Capital Grants 20,000 - Local Recurrent Grants 36,254 57,927 Fees & Charges Unrestricted 28,354 22,769 Fundraising 774 1,327 Other Income 9,885 5,875

TOTAL INCOME 226,617 230,645

less Expenses

Audit & Accounting

3,023 1,200 Advertising & Promotion

2,578 6,934

Assets Purchased under $5000

306 5,462 Governance Expenses

1,501 1,840

Cleaning Expenses

2,534 2,832 Client Support Services

22,738 24,370

ACFE Capital Grant

- 8,500 Computer Expenses

3,843 2,724

Consulting Fees

1,946 13,159 Depreciation

1,564 1,500

Donations

- 330 Fees & Permits

1,564 2,110

Insurance

946 975 Memberships

221 -

Postage & Freight

427 1,057 Printing, Stationery, Copying

1,815 2,969

Publications

- 50 Venue Hire 668 946 Maintenance & Repairs 216 599 Salaries & Wages 164,537 174,069 Staff Amenities 1,497 2,025 Internet & Telephone 4,388 4,527 Staff Training 60 750 Travel & Accommodation 292 2,766 Sundry Expenses 424 2,405 Volunteer Costs 837 1,486

TOTAL EXPENSES

217,925 265,585 Net profit ( loss)for year

8,692 (34,940)

Add Retained earnings b/f

64,759 99,699

RETAINED EARNINGS 30 JUNE 2014

73,451 64,759


STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014

2014 2013

$ $

Cash Flow from Operating Activities Operating Grants received

226,873 255,536

Fee for Service Courses

28,354 23,594

Donations & Other Income

8,701 5,600

Interest Received

1,184 1,602

Payments for Running Costs & Maintenance

(290,107) (291,445)

NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

(24,995)

(5,113)

Cash Flow from Investing Activities Purchase of fixed assets

(4,467) -

NET CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR

(29,462) (5,113)

Reconciliation of Net Cash Flows to Operating Surplus Operating Surplus (Deficit)

8,692 (34,940)

Add back Depreciation

1,564 1,500

Adjustments

- -

10,256 (33,440)

Changes in Assets & Liabilities Increase / Decrease in Current Assets

387 (772)

Increase / Decrease in Current Liabilities

(35,638) 29,099

NET CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATIONS

(24,995) (5,113)

CASH AT START OF YEAR

111,639 116,752

Add Net Cash Flows

(29,462) (5,113)

CASH AT BANK 30 JUNE 2014

82,177 111,639

made up of:

Cash at Banks

81,777 111,139

Cash on Hand

400 500

Term Deposits

- -

CASH AT BANK 30 JUNE 2014

82,177 111,639


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2014

2014 2013

$ $

Current Assets Bendigo Bank

81,777 111,139

Cash Floats

400 500

Accounts Receivable

3,091 3,478

Total Current Assets

85,268 115,117

Non-Current Assets

Plant & Equipment -at cost 26,419 21,952

Less Accumulated Depreciation (14,580) (13,016)

Total Non-Current Assets

11,839 8,936

TOTAL ASSETS

97,107 124,053

Less

Current Liabilities

Trade Creditors 1,864 4,294

GST Owing 3,456 4,960

Grants in Advance - 28,058

Prepaid Fees 1,146 825

PAYG Owing 7,746 7,273

Provision for Annual Leave 5,443 7,412

Superannuation Owing 3,736 6,207

TOTAL LIABILITES 23,391 59,029

NET ASSETS 73,716 65,024

Represented by

Members Equity Reserves 265 265

Retained Earnings 73,451 64,759

MEMBERS EQUITY

73,716 65,024


Student feedback

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

I started Tai Chi classes at SPAN 18 months ago. My

physical health and general wellbeing has greatly improved

in this time. I really look forward to the weekly sessions.

The classes are friendly, well-paced and the instructor Rani

Hughes is very welcoming and a great teacher/leader.

I would encourage anyone with physical or mental health

issues or who is fit and wants to try a new safe form of

exercise and relaxation to try Tai Chi with Rani at SPAN.

I first joined the Tai Chi classes with Rani at SPAN two

years ago. I found it was a really good introduction to Tai Chi and I was inspired to continue

on with the classes and learn two new forms.

I enjoy practicing Tai Chi as both a form of relaxation, as well as a gentle exercise for my

mind and body. I think it really helps reduce stress and it is great to always be learning

something new. The classes at SPAN are really supportive and provide a welcoming and

accessible learning environment and I appreciate how they attract a diverse range of

people.

CREATIVE

To develop my writing skills. Finish polishing a young adult novel, I am currently working on. Mix with other writers.

I like writing humorous stories and poems. I come for advice.

To learn and gain more experience and confidence when using different mediums.

Interest and pleasure in art.

GROW IT,COOK IT

Carmen's instructions and having fun.

Meeting people cooking, gardening and sharing skills.

Welcoming environment, wonderful people, interesting contacts made.


Student surveys 2013

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1

2

3

4

5

6

Expectation

Strongly Agree

Agree

Indifferent

Disagree

Strongly disagree

01234567

Learning Needs

Strongly Agree

Agree

Indifferent

Disagree

Strongly disagree

0

2

4

6

8

Value for Money

Strongly Agree

Agree

Indifferent

Disagree

Strongly disagree


SPAN events

During the last financial year there were many events held at SPAN. Some of these events are listed

here.

Managing money for women

Managing money for women was delivered by Women’s Health in the North (WHIN).

The course was held over several weeks where consultants spoke on the dynamics on how to manage bills, banking and save on utilities.

This quote was given by a participant:

“We had a great time in Toni's workshops which were really informative, relevant and helpful as well as being relaxed and friendly. I'm happy to say as a result some of us have stayed in touch and are attending another class together”.

Feedback from the course included:

What three things will you put in practice as a result of the program?

See a financial counsellor.

Maintain a spending diary.

Re-evaluate my superannuation.

Access websites that provided financial literacy information.

Survey energy providers.

Budget and explore money saving ideas.

Law week Along with the support of Victorian Law Foundation and Darebin Community Legal Centre, SPAN offered two free legal seminars. This was part of Victorian Law Week events held in May of each year. SPAN offered Wills and Powers of Attorneys seminar. This session was well attended and community members requested another session to be held at SPAN this was provided August 2015.


SPAN’s open day

SPAN had an Open day which showcased the classes we hold. It was a very successful day with many of the volunteers and staff lending a hand for this weekend event.

Community lunches

Monthly community lunches are held at SPAN. Our chef cooks a meal consisting of a main course which includes seasonal vegetables and salads with ingredients taken from our community garden, and dessert with coffee or tea to follow. It is an hour or so where people can come together and have a wonderful cooked meal and enjoy time together.

SPAN high tea a regular event held in May and October. This event is for carers allowing them to be spoiled by the SPAN high tea staff team. Carmen De Fazio our resident chef whips up a fine fare. Barb Cole and Sarah Mc Namee arrange the table setting and provide support for Carmen.

2013 Christmas community lunch where Santa came in to spread

some Christmas cheer and laughter.

Documents

SPAN Community House Inc. · We had a strong field of people interested in the job and selected Colleen Duggan because we believed she was the best applicant and person to lead SPAN