Jan Simmons

To say that Jan Simmons knows the Neighbourhood House Sector is an understatement. Her experience in Education, Community Development and Social Enterprise goes beyond the boundaries of Ballarat to include Statewide, National and International activity and study. These experiences have contributed to a broad knowledge of the market place Her achievements have included A Prime Ministers Medal, awards for programs, the development of a Learning Town and two  travelling scholarships. Her work is characterised by an ability to recruit talent and build high functioning teams and also to build dynamic partnerships which have included libraries, kindergartens schools, the police force and local government among others. Highlights includes the setting up of the Literacy program a first for Yarra Ranges, the building of a community park and a community link facility. In her new home of Ballarat she is the team Leader for the Work and Learning Centre which works effectively with the Neighbourhood House Program to enhance work and learning opportunities for long term unemployed. These have included the development of a social enterprise connected to the industrial kitchen providing practical applications for unemployed adults. Jan beats the drum for the building of opportunities and the making a difference that will provide broad ranging opportunities for disadvantaged people using energy and a sense humour to achieve these goals.