Belonging, Hope, and Impact: The Heart of the Ozanam Learning Centre

The Ozanam Learning Centre (OLC), part of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW’s commitment to supporting people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage, continues to change lives. Not through grand gestures, but through dignity, compassion, and community. Its recent quality accreditation audit has not only validated its impact but also illuminated what’s possible when care is person-centred and driven by purpose.

A Strong Audit Outcome, A Strong Foundation

The OLC was recently audited against the QIC Health and Community Services Standards (7.1 edition), and the outcome was both affirming and inspiring. The assessment highlighted how our improved systems and processes have had a real, measurable impact on the lives of the people we assist.

The auditor recognised that quality at the OLC isn’t confined to paperwork, it’s alive in the collaborative leadership, dedicated frontline staff, and person-centred approaches that drive daily operations. Together, these elements create an enabling environment where people feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Among the most powerful moments of the audit were the insights shared by the people who access the Centre’s services—the People We Assist.

“OLC is life changing. I now feel part of something.”

This single quote reflects what many echoed: a deep sense of belonging, safety, and recognition. The People we assist (PWA) spoke of the OLC as a welcoming and supportive environment, one where they are seen and valued, not just served.

This doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through consistent, meaningful interactions-a remembered name, a warm greeting, a listening ear. These small gestures form the fabric of the OLC experience, where trust is built, and hope is restored.

A Shared Vision: Staff and Stakeholders

Staff at the OLC shared a strong understanding of their roles and responsibilities, with many expressing how meaningful their work is. While some found it hard to articulate exactly what fosters the PWAs’ sense of safety, the audit highlighted what many of us already know: it’s the little things that matter most.

Stakeholders, too, praised the program’s holistic model, which focuses on individual needs and supports real capacity building. From free counselling to creative, person-centred initiatives, the OLC was recognised as a place that doesn’t just respond to problems, it empowers people to grow beyond them.

Areas for Growth, and a Commitment to Learn

The audit process also provided valuable opportunities for improvement. Areas such as privacy and consent, risk management, and participatory program design will continue to be strengthened, with the goal of involving people we assist in shaping the very programs that support them.

This feedback isn’t seen as criticism - it’s embraced as a chance to listen, reflect, and evolve, ensuring the OLC continues to set the bar for high quality, respectful, and inclusive service delivery.

People, Not Just Programs

The Ozanam Learning Centre is a shining example of what can happen when we put people before process. When we create spaces where individuals are not just helped but heard. Where connection, opportunity, and dignity are the norm.

And at Vinnies, people are always at the heart of everything we do.