Whitehorse Emergency Relief and Support (WERS) is a not-for-profit incorporated organisation run entirely by volunteers. WERS was established in 1967 as a Citizens Advice Bureau to meet a need in the community for information and emergency financial assistance.
We provide support to individuals and families facing a wide range of life situations. Our trained, multicultural volunteer Community Support Workers offer one-to-one discussions, ensuring client privacy and confidentiality at all times.
We welcome people of all cultural, religious, gender, and age backgrounds. Our services are free, independent, and client focused.
WERS is a member agency of Community Information and Support Victoria (CISVic), the peak body for the community information and support sector, and benefits from CISVic’s leadership and advocacy.
We are funded through grants and donations from government, council, businesses, trusts, individuals and local organisations. We operate independently of all government bodies through a volunteer Board of Management.
Mission & Vision
Mission: WERS provides emergency relief assistance, information and support services to the local community
Vision: Alleviating the impact of poverty and social injustice to create a fairer community
Our Values
Fairness
Our services and resources are provided inclusively, equitably and fairly to anyone in need within the City of Whitehorse. .
Empowerment
Our support provides opportunity for clients to make their own choices that positively impact their future.
Respect
We seek to understand the experiences, needs and options from our clients perspectives through a confidential and compassionate approach.
Integrity
We act with transparency and
accountability to our funding bodies, clients and
other stakeholders while seeking
continuous improvement.
Collaboration
We work together in a
cooperative environment
to achieve the best outcomes
for our clients.
Our Board
The WERS Board members bring skills and passion to provide leadership and strategic direction, ensuring the organisation’s finances are sound, its operations are lawful, and its procedures are effective.
- President: Eva Patricia Cole (Trish, nee Reck)
- Vice President: Nicky Luo
- Treasurer: Jun Dong Anderson (June)
- Secretary: Alex Salmon
- Ordinary members: Devika Khatri; Judith Eason;
Shia Smart; Chathura Abeydeera
Board Member
Vice President
Board Member
Board Member
Secretary
Board Member
Donations
WERS has Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) endorsement.
All donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.