Join Our Board - EOIs OPEN

Seeking Passionate Volunteers for The Place Board

We are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Directors. As we continue to drive our mission forward, we recognise the critical role that a diverse, skilled, and aligned board plays in enhancing our impact.


Our organisation is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where each board member's unique perspective and expertise can contribute to our shared goals.


About Us

Our primary goal is to support active community development. This is enabled through the mechanism of a financially sustainable social enterprise and is underpinned by strong and effective governance. Work undertaken by The Place is enhanced by our adherence to the core values of inclusivity and respect, participation, integrity, responsiveness, and financial and social responsibility.


 

We work collaboratively with the community to respond to emerging needs. Since commencing operation, our organisation has responded to identified local needs by establishing a several programs and services. Our vision is to enable active community development through sustainable social enterprise and our mission is to welcome and support a diverse community to meet, connect, belong, and grow. Our board plays a crucial role in ensuring that we stay true to our mission while driving innovation and growth.

 

Why Join Our Board?

Joining our board provides a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the community we serve. By integrating the pillars of alignment, diversity, and skills, we ensure that our board remains engaged, effective, and responsive to the needs of our community, organisation and stakeholders.

 

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for individuals who are aligned with our mission, bring a diversity of experiences, perspectives, and possess the skills needed to guide our organisation into the future. Specifically, we are seeking:

 

1. Alignment with Our Mission: to welcome and support a diverse community to meet, connect, belong, and grow.

 

  - A deep understanding and dedication to our organisation’s purpose and goals.

  - Alignment with our core values of inclusivity, integrity, responsibility, and responsiveness.

  - The ability to work collaboratively with other board members towards common goals.

 

2. Diversity of Perspectives:

  - Individuals from varied backgrounds, including different ethnicities, genders, ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

  - Cultural competence and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are accommodated, heard and valued.

 

3. Relevant Experience, Skills and Expertise:

  - Qualifications and/or experience in areas such as finance, legal matters, marketing, community engagement, or other relevant fields.

  - A willingness to learn and adapt to industry trends and best practices.

  - Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to develop effective solutions to complex issues.

- Lived experience of key community issues.

 

Roles and Responsibilities

As a board member, you will be expected to:

- Participate in regular strategic planning sessions to ensure alignment with our mission and goals.

- Support the activities and events held by the organisation, including attending key functions.

- Contribute your expertise to enhance the board’s decision-making process and the overall governance of the organisation.

- Engage in opportunities for training and other continuous learning and development activities.


A Board Information Pack is available here. Please ensure you read to assist in your application. Contact us if you require a print or email version.

 

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining our board and believe you have the passion, commitment, and skills to contribute to our success, we invite you to submit an expression of interest. Information sought includes:

- A brief statement of why you are interested in joining our board.

- An overview of your background and how it aligns with our needs.

- Any relevant experience or skills you bring to the table.

 

Submission Information

 

Please submit your expression of interest by 8 November 2024. We will review all applications and contact selected candidates for further discussion.

 

Following are the key dates for 2024:

Friday, 13 September 2024

Interested members of the community are invited to access an Information Pack and then consider submitting an Expression of Interest form.

Friday, 8 November 2024

Expressions of Interest must be lodged with The Place before 5pm.

Monday, 11 November to Friday, 15 November 2024

Candidate Interviews by appointment

Monday, 18 November 2024

All candidates are notified of the Boards decision and successful candidates are invited to an informal orientation.

Tuesday, 19 November 2024 to Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Informal Orientation session (2 hours) will be held at The Place by appointment.

Thursday 21 November 2024

The Place Annual General Meeting will be held, and new Board Members admitted. 


 

We look forward to hearing from individuals who are eager to contribute their time, expertise, and passion to our organisation. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact and drive our mission forward.


Should you wish to express interest in applying for the Board positions becoming vacant you will need to complete and submit an expression of interest form. The EOI form can be submitted in any of the following ways:

 

  • Complete a Google Form here

 

 

 

  • Contact us at The Place on 02 4032 5500 to arrange for an EOI form to be collected. Complete the form and submit it in person, via post, or scan or email it to: manager@theplacecharlestown.org.au

 

 

For further information, please contact Cristelle Govender, Centre Manager on  02 4032 5505.  Cristelle can put you in contact with the existing Community and Youth Representatives if you would like to discuss the opportunity


by Cristelle Govender 28 November 2025
As we reach the end of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have achieved together. 2025 has been a year of connection, resilience, and community spirit at The Place Charlestown Community Centre. Whether you participated in a program, volunteered your time, partnered with us, or simply walked through our doors with a smile, your contribution has helped make our Centre a welcoming and vibrant space for all. This year has also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by many in our community. Cost-of-living pressures, social isolation, and complex life circumstances continue to impact people in different ways. Yet, despite these realities, we have witnessed incredible compassion, generosity, and strength from individuals and groups across our community. As we enter the festive season, I encourage everyone to take the time to “fill your cup”, to rest, recharge, and spend time with those who lift you up. It’s important to look after ourselves so that we can continue to support others. At the same time, Christmas can be a difficult period for many. There are those who may be grieving, feeling lonely, or facing financial or emotional hardship. Let’s keep these community members in our thoughts and extend kindness wherever we can. A small gesture, a smile, a conversation, a check-in, a helping hand, can make a far bigger difference than we realise. Thank you for being part of our community this year. Your presence enriches The Place and strengthens the fabric of connection we are proud to foster. We look forward to sharing a new year filled with possibility, hope, and continued collaboration. Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season. Cristelle and the team at The Place
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