The BEST Health Support Organisations in Longwood VIC

In 1991, the Shepparton Central Rotary Club made a commitment to raise funds towards a new youth service designed to be an access point for advice, programs and information. The aim was to provide enhanced opportunities for the development of optimal health and well-being of young people. The Bridge Youth Service opened in 1995 and began co-tenancy with the Goulburn Accommodation Program Inc., a youth service who managed a “youth house” in Shepparton. Though operating as separate agencies, the similarity in focus and need to have strong service infrastructure, lead to the merger of the two services in 1999. The Bridge Youth Service has grown to support Mitchell, Murrundindi, Moira and Strathbogie shires as well as the City of Greater Shepparton through innovative programs and practices. With offices located in Shepparton, Wallan and Seymour and staff sitting at The Greater Shepparton Secondary College weekly. The organisation has over 40 staff and provides services to between 1000-1200 young people per year. Programs run through The Bridge Youth Service are funded through the Victorian Government, Department of Families, Fairness & Housing, Department of Education , Murray PHN as well as fundraising activities and grants from other sources.

Our vision is for a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and prison truly is the last resort. Our purpose is to strengthen the wellbeing of communities by advocating for and delivering services which divert people away from the justice system. Our ethos is "Create another chance"​ ACSO was founded in 1983 by a man named Stan McCormack, who served a number of years in Pentridge Prison for armed robbery. While Stan was in prison, he underwent a spiritual conversion. There were always people in his cell wanting to talk, or needing advice. When he was released, he created the Epistle Centre; later The Victorian Offender Support Agency for ex-prisoners who were highly disadvantaged. Our founders established support programs and a halfway house (McCormack House) which still remains in operation today. ACSO has expanded over 35 years to deliver services across the eastern seaboard for the intellectually disabled, peopling with mental illness, alcohol and other drug problems, offenders and people with long term unemployment. With a staff of over 440 and an annual turnover of approximately $50m in 2019, ACSO is now a leading Australian NFP, delivering more than 20 life changing programs to approximately 20,000 people a year. "It was the sheer determination and drive of founder Stan and his supporters that got ACSO through, even when the foundations seemed to disappear. He was willing, and things happening so fast. There was a lot of help from a lot of people, but the brains and inspiration came from Stan. The best thing was that he took all those blokes in on face value without worrying about their pasts."

At Goulburn Valley Centre Against Sexual Assault, we are a leading Health Support Organisation dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance and care to survivors of sexual assault. Our team of experienced professionals operates from Monday to Saturday, ensuring extended accessibility for those in need. You can reach us at 03 5831 2343 or visit our website at http://www.gvcasa.com.au. Located at 130 Nixon St, Shepparton VIC 3630, we are committed to supporting and empowering survivors on their healing journey.

Goulburn Valley Family Care is a leading Charities & Organisations in Shepparton, VIC. With our team of dedicated professionals, we provide support and resources to families in need. Our doors are open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Connect with us at 03 5823 7000 or visit our website at http://www.familycare.net.au. Located at 21 Welsford St, we strive to make a positive difference in the lives of our community members.

Odyssey House Victoria, a charitable organisation, operates from Shepparton VIC. With a phone number (03 8521 6501) and a user-friendly website (http://www.odyssey.org.au), it provides assistance to those in need. Located at 43A Wyndham St, the organisation aims to make a positive impact on society. Offering support and guidance, they strive to empower individuals, fostering a sense of hope and renewal. Compassionate and dedicated, Odyssey House Victoria is a beacon of light for the vulnerable.