Meet Ross Coleman, Manager of BCS Warilla North Community Centre (WNCC).
When did you start working for BCS and what was your background before coming to BCS?
I started working for BCS some years ago in 1981 when the organisation ran an accommodation unit at Liverpool for men leaving prison called Aratoro. My role as welfare worker was to visit the men prior to release and collaboratively work with them towards successful assimilation into society. It was a steep learning curve for me with numerous disappointments, some surprises and many challenges. It was a role which ended up being merged with Prison Fellowship in the mid 1980's, where I was appointed Executive Director NSW.
After a few years away from BCS working as a church planter in Sydney's outer suburbs and by way of contrast working in the inner city with HopeStreet, I rejoined BCS in 2006 as manager at BCS Warilla NOrth Community Centre.
Briefly describe your present role at BCS?
As the Manager at WNCC, located in the Shellharbour, my team of staff and volunteers seek to engage with and assist local residents to create their own positive future. Statistics suggest that the Shellharbour area is one exhibiting high needs. However, I would add that the sense of community, the passion to care for those who are hurting and the desire to face life issues is also a key hallmark of residents here.
As a team we have started a number of new initiatives such as the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS). The purpose of NILS is to assist low income people, caught in a poverty trap, to acquire loans without fees.
We also offer computer classes, an op shop, community meals, community BBQs, playgroups, dance classes, accommodation for women and children escaping domestic violence.
We have a good time listening to the stories from people in the community.
What do you most enjoy about your work at BCS?
BCS is a great organisation, displaying passion for the marginalised - I like that! It has a long history of supporting programs and encouraging new initiatives that support this value, sometimes at the organisation's own expense. BCS have backed up their passion with significant amounts of money for many years.
The strength of BCS is that it maintains a strong link to high needs communities, such as Warilla.
What would you say to someone considering a career in human services?
Two things - firstly listen to yourself.
Get to know your own inner world because in this field of work, self-awareness is critical to authentically walking alongside the full spectrum of people who will come your way. Also be prepared to allow that inner world to be challenged and changed, because I guarantee being involved in human services is a life-changing pursuit.
Secondly, I suggest that you listen to the community or your clients. Take time to hear their stories, their dreams and fears. My experience is that while this takes time, it also builds trust with people and provides a platform for greater things to be done collaboratively with the community around.