In 1973 Whittlesea residents established what is now known as Whittlesea Community Connections (WCC). Its purpose was to provide those in need with access to critical support services. Operating with little to no funding, WCC volunteers shared their first office with a local Lalor accountant. In 1974, Tony Comito, a lawyer based in Lalor, offered WCC a room in his new offices at 284a Station Street. It was here that in 1978, WCC commenced its free legal advice service.
Today, WCC operates with a small number of permanent staff and over 300 volunteers to deliver critical support services. Collaborating with local businesses, organisations and the City of Whittlesea, WCC supports the municipality’s diverse community with legal, financial and health assistance programs. WCC has been proud to establish the following community initiatives:
- Whittlesea Volunteer Resource Services (2003)
- Whittlesea Community Legal Services (2004)
- Whittlesea Connect – Whittlesea’s first Community Transport Service (2006)
- Learner driver education programs (2009)
- Women-in-Work Childcare Community Enterprise (2010)
- Housing Brokerage Project (2013)
- The Thomastown West Community Hub (2013)
- Whittlesea CALD Communities Family Violence Project (2013)
- The Hamdel Project (2014)
- The Equity, Health and Justice Project (2016)
2023 marks the 50th year of operation for Whittlesea Community Connections. Over the years, we have lost touch with people who have contributed to our success. We are using our 50th anniversary to re-connect with past volunteers, staff, board members and supporters. We would love to hear your stories of your experience with Whittlesea Community Connections.
Please use the form below to share your story.
Your WCC Story
Tell the story of your experience of Whittlesea Community Connections to add to our collection which will be shared at our 50th Birthday Celebration event.