Grounded is a practical, place-based learning experience that combines community development, personal growth, mentoring and hands-on involvement in neighbourhood life.

Rather than simply studying community development, you'll experience it firsthand through involvement in the everyday work of The Good Neighbourhood Project.

Grounded is for people interested in community development, social justice, neighbourhood ministry or community-focused work.

You might be studying, starting out in your career, exploring a change in direction or simply looking for an opportunity to learn and grow.

You don't need a qualification or a clear career plan. We're looking for people who are curious, open to learning and willing to get involved.

You'll explore a wide range of community development approaches and practical skills, including:

• Asset-Based and Participatory Community Development

• Placemaking and neighbourhood renewal

• Poverty, inequality and social justice

• Systems thinking and systems change

• Trauma-informed community development

• Community organising, advocacy and campaigns

• Listening skills, conflict management and healthy relationships

• Self-awareness, personal wellbeing and resilience

Learning takes place through workshops, practical experience, exposure visits, conversations with practitioners and regular reflection.

Grounded combines four key elements:

Learn through experience: Get involved in TGNP's neighbourhood spaces, programs, events and community initiatives.

Learn from others: Participate in regular learning sessions, visit other organisations and learn alongside experienced community practitioners.

Reflect and grow: Engage in mentoring, coaching and personal reflection to explore your values, strengths and future direction.

Be part of community: Build relationships, participate in neighbourhood life and learn alongside local people. Shared residential living opportunities are also available for those interested.

The Good Neighbourhood Project is shaped by values of love, hospitality, generosity, joy and peace.

The program welcomes people from all backgrounds and beliefs.

In partnership with Norlane Baptist Church, participants can also choose an optional Christian faith formation pathway, with opportunities for spiritual reflection, shared practices and exploring faith in action.

No. Grounded is open to participants who live locally or elsewhere in the Geelong region, as well as those interested in relocating.

There are opportunities for shared residential living in Norlane, but this is not a requirement for participation.

Grounded offers a learning pathway of between one and three years, depending on your interests, circumstances and future direction.

Each year provides opportunities to deepen your understanding, practical experience and personal growth.

If Grounded sounds like something you'd love to be part of, we'd love to hear from you.

Express your interest to find out more about the experience, upcoming opportunities and the application process.