The Centre For Continuing Education has been working with regional communities, building skills and forging connections for locals, since 1962.
The Centre has campuses across regional Victoria, from Seymour to Wangaratta, where the head office is located, and offers courses in towns including Benalla, Broadford, Mansfield, Shepparton and Wodonga.
The Centre is known primarily for its courses, offering both certificate courses and shorter courses such as first aid and RSA.
A Centre Spokesperson said education, however, is just the base of what it offers regional towns.
“We’re a community-focused organisation as well,” the spokesperson said.
Not only does The Centre offer mentoring and support, essential for those who have barriers inhibiting their access education, through its Reconnect program, it also participates in the Australian Governments Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme.
This promotes and facilitates regular in-person volunteer visits to give friendship and companionship to older people across the Hume Region.
In Seymour, The Centre, in conjunction with a series of local organisations, helps to facilitate a Community FoodShare on the first Thursday of every month, out of its Wallis St campus.
This works to assist disadvantaged members of the community, providing access to fresh and canned food, and acts as a source of education, with participants in some of The Centre’s courses being able to maintain the FoodShare Garden, the produce of which goes into the FoodShare program.
The FoodShare is a product of dedicated people.
“It was the staff of these organisations that took it upon themselves to say, ‘this is what we can do for the community,” the spokesperson said.
“The people that are working in Seymour are really proud of what they’ve accomplished there.”
Although used as a marketing motto, the phrase ‘we are the centre of your community’ truly is what The Centre is all about.
The Centre has helped countless individuals to work towards achieving their life goals.
A key success story that has emerged from it, is that of a young man who was guided to find his true passion.
The student came into The Centre to take part in its Ability Me course, and came out with a passion for education support, eventually completing a Cert III in School-Based Education Support, and finding a future career from the assistance he received.
“It was something he never believed he was capable of,” the spokesperson said.
“He found his talent, and what he loves to do, and we guided and supported him in that direction.”
Acting CEO Sharee Castagna said the Centre has already achieved so much, and the drive and passion of the staff continue to work towards helping the community.
“(Last year) was a fantastic year,” Ms Castagna said.
“We achieved so much by providing greater education, learning and support to organisations, community groups, students, and those in need of a helping hand.
“As we step into 2025, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead and the difference we can continue to make in Seymour and the surrounding community.”
For more information, head to The Centre’s website at www.thecentre.vic.edu.au
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