What does PLACE mean?
It is an acronym that represents People, Learning, Activities, Community, Education. Karingal PLACE is a multi-service children and family ‘hub’ located in the heart of Karingal.
Background
In 2003, the Department of Human Services (DHS) announced potential funding to support the concept of children’s hubs. Evidence has shown that improved health, development, learning and wellbeing of young children can be achieved through more integrated and collaborative service delivery and through linking services to meet the needs of children and their families.
In 2004 DHS approved funding for $500,000 as a contribution towards the development of a hub at Karingal. Funding was also received from Frankston City Council, Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) and Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD). A significant partnership between Frankston City Council and Karingal Primary School enabled the capital works to proceed. A key component of the project was the relocation of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services, kindergarten services and Karingal Neighbourhood House that were all previously housed in council owned infrastructure that was aged and no longer suitable.
After 7 years in the planning Karingal PLACE was finally opened on 5 February 2010. We became incorporated on 15 September 2010.
Our vision
Karingal PLACE – a great place to start.
A place:
- With a lifelong approach to learning and further education
- That respectfully engages people of all abilities, background and ages
- That provides a sense of belonging for the community
- That provides recognised high quality early education and care
- Where people are heard and can get access to the services and the information they need
- Where people have fun and are supported and inspired
- That provides opportunities for community members to meet, both formally and informally
- Where there are warm, friendly engaging professionals and volunteers
- Where services for the community work together
- That adapts to the changing needs of the community