In the last week of August, the Challenge Community Services Board of Directors and Executive Leadership Team embarked on a road trip to visit several of our sites across the Hunter region. Although they are usually based in Tamworth, our board has committed to holding meetings in each of the regions where Challenge operates. This new approach will help them gain a closer perspective on the work our teams are doing and engage directly with both staff and clients.
A Warm Welcome at Koora Industries
Beginning in Muswellbrook, our board visited Koora Industries. Established in 1970, this Australian Disability Enterprise provides supported employment opportunities for people with disabilities, allowing them to learn new skills and develop independence. The Koora team were excited to host the Board and took great pride in showcasing their workshop. During the tour, the board members had the opportunity to see firsthand the diverse range of products made by our supported employees, including timber pallets, packing crates and surveying pegs. The visit highlighted the significant impact that Koora Industries has on the lives of our employees, many of whom have found a sense of purpose and fulfillment through their work.
An Afternoon in Maitland
After leaving Muswellbrook, the board continued to Maitland, where they visited our Community Support Program. This program provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities to engage in various activities that promote social interaction, skill development, and overall well-being. The board members had the chance to meet with staff and clients, learning about the tailored programs that help participants build confidence and independence.
The tour also included a stop at our Foster Care and Allied Health office in Maitland. Here, the board learned more about the critical services we provide to vulnerable children and families in the region. The Foster Care team shared insights into their work recruiting and supporting foster carers, while the Allied Health team discussed their role in providing essential psychological and behavioural support to children in care and people with disability. This visit provided our directors with a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes faced by our teams in these vital areas of service.
The day concluded with the board’s scheduled meeting held at the Maitland office, providing an ideal setting for the directors to reflect on the day’s experiences and discuss future strategies for our organisation.
Discovering the Beaumont St Support Office
The following day, our directors travelled to Newcastle, where they visited our Beaumont St support office. This office is home to several of our key support teams, including Marketing, Recruitment, and Health and Safety. This visit allowed the board time with each of these teams to learn more about how they contribute to the broader success of our organisation.
The marketing team discussed their strategies for raising awareness about our services and engaging with the community, while the recruitment team shared their ongoing efforts to attract and retain talented staff across all our locations. The health and safety team also provided insights into their work ensuring that our workplaces are safe and compliant with all relevant regulations.
Forging Connections with the Board of Directors
By visiting our sites and meeting directly with staff and clients, our board is gaining invaluable insights into the day-to-day operations of our organisation. This approach not only strengthens their connection to the people we support and our front-line teams, but also helps inform their decision-making process, ensuring that Challenge Community Services remains responsive to the needs of our clients and communities. Director tours are set to become a regular feature on our organisational calendar.
As we move forward, we are excited to see how these visits will shape the future of our organisation. The board’s commitment to engaging with our teams on the ground is a testament to their dedication to our mission and to the continued success of our services across all regions.
