About Us

The Onehunga District Council of Social Services (ODCOSS) was formed out of a shared vision: to bring together the many social service organisations working in and around Onehunga so that our community could grow stronger, more connected, and better supported. ODCOSS began in the early 2000s as an informal network of local service providers who saw the value in working side by side rather than in isolation. What started as small gatherings soon grew into a regular forum where groups could share ideas, collaborate on projects, and speak with a united voice for the needs of Onehunga.

Our vision, mission and values

Vision:
An inclusive organisation with active membership, participation, mutual respect, valuing everybody equally, with opportunity for every person to develop their full potential and live a dignified and productive life through knowing what is available to help them do this.

Mission Statement:
To provide the community of the Maungakiekie ward with a knowledge of the Social Services available to them while at the same time providing the service providers with the tools to strengthen their organisations and empower them to improve their services through networking and appropriate advocacy if needed.

Values:
To uphold the Treaty of Waitangi and have participation, active protection, partnerships, social justice, equality and fairness, social development and a voice for the voiceless.

Our Goals

The need for diversity in structure and growth in size of the organisation.

Build up our database and increase the numbers on our network.

Work with partners on important local projects, share with Auckland Council, perhaps through the Local Board members information
on how member groups feel on projects taking place within the community.

Provide professional advice to member groups through appropriate courses for needs that these groups may be experiencing.

Put together groups who are working in a similar field of service with a view towards mutual help between these groups.