Community Centre Alliance
Established in 2002, the Community Centre Alliance Newfoundland and Labrador Inc. (CCA) is a not-for-profit partnership of five community centres located in social housing neighbourhoods across St. John’s: Buckmaster’s Circle Community Centre, Froude Avenue Community Centre, McSheffrey Resource Centre (formerly MacMorran Community Centre), Rabbittown Community Centre, and Virginia Park Community Centre. Together, these centres support approximately 1,100 households by working collaboratively to reduce barriers associated with low income and foster strong, resilient communities. CCA’s work is grounded in three core pillars: Employment and Career Development, Learning and Literacy, and Wellness.
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Through our collaborative efforts, CCA has become a trusted presence in our neighbourhoods, providing seamless, long-term support to individuals and families. Our programs have been recognized nationally for their effectiveness and innovation in addressing poverty and promoting community development.
Meet our Board of Directors
The Community Centre Alliance is guided by a dedicated and passionate Board of Directors who bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community development. Together, they help shape the vision and strategic direction of the organization, ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of the communities we serve.
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Lilly Lush, Chair
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Jim Crockwell, Director
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Bonnie James, Director
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Enid Pendergast, Director
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Ron Ellsworth, Director
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Vicky Mullins, Director
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Our Mission
The Community Centre Alliance Inc. (CCA) is a registered charity committed to empowering neighbourhood communities by strengthening our member centres and the individuals they serve. Through collaborative partnerships, inclusive programming, and community-driven leadership, we work to build vibrant, resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
Our History
Founded in 2002 by the Executive Directors of Buckmaster’s Circle, Froude Avenue, Rabbittown, MacMorran (now McSheffrey Resource Centre), and Virginia Park Community Centres, the Community Centre Alliance (CCA) was established to unify efforts in addressing the challenges faced by low-income neighbourhoods in St. John's. This collaborative model enabled member centres to advocate collectively, share resources, and streamline funding opportunities. Initially concentrating on employment and career development, CCA's scope quickly broadened to encompass education and economic development initiatives within these communities.​
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A cornerstone of CCA's effectiveness is its place-based strategy, embedding staff directly within each partner community centre. This proximity ensures accessible services and fosters strong, trust-based relationships with residents. Over the years, this approach has allowed CCA to offer consistent, long-term support, evolving programs to meet the changing needs of the communities. Today, CCA's work is structured around three primary pillars: Employment and Career Development; Learning and Literacy; and Wellness.
Our Guiding Principles
Respect & Equity:
We foster inclusive, respectful environments where dignity, diversity, and opportunity are upheld for all.
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Strengths-Based Approach:
We believe in the resilience and potential of every individual. Our work is collaborative, flexible, and rooted in meeting people where they are.
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Place-Based Support:
By embedding staff directly within community centres, we ensure accessible, relationship-driven support that connects residents with a range of wraparound services.
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Flexibility & Collaboration:
We balance proactive planning with responsiveness to community needs, continuously shaped by the voices of participants and partners.
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Lifelong Learning:
We embrace learning as a lifelong journey, offering programs that reflect individual strengths, learning styles, and opportunities for personal growth.
