About GMBA
The Association was formed during the
independence movement
of Bangladesh
in 1971. Operating from a tiny room of
the community's religious centre -
Shahjalal Mosque.
The Association acquired the present premises in 1985 and added the Arts Theatre
and Sports Complex in 1993 to meet the growing needs of the community. In
1999 - 2000 a mezzanine floor was added to the first floor to expand Computer
Training facilities.
Aims and Objectives
To advance education concerning good citizenship, relieving such persons primarily
those of Bangladeshi origin in conditions of need, hardship or distress, in
association with local authorities, voluntary organisations, providing advice
and information and taking measures against unsociable activities and other
related matters, particularly among the new generation and help them to acquire
meaningful skills.
Management of
the Organisation
The Organisation is managed by a 21-member committee duly elected every two
years by the paid-up members. Its services, however, extend to all people
of Bangladeshi origin irrespective of their membership status. Since 1987
it has adopted an "Open Door" policy and its services are available
to all communities irrespective of colour creed and origin. Under the constitutional
obligations the management is however, restricted among the paid members of
Bangladeshi origin, but users of all denominations are free to take part in
any of its activities.
Staffing
The Association has 17 paid staff headed by a General Manager. In addition
there are volunteer groups to exclusively deal with issues relating to:Women
and Children, Arts & Culture,Youth Activities & Older Adults &
Disabled people.
Equal Opportunities
The Organisation is firmly committed to Equal Opportunities in recruitment
and development of staff members, and provides service to all concerned who
walks through the door in need of help and assistance.
Funding
The organisation is not a grant-aided body. It generates funds through its
various activities, donations from its members, and assistance from various
corporate and statutory bodies, which are mostly project bases and vary from
year to year.
Access
The Centre has full access facilities for the disabled to the ground and first
floors through lift facilities. All doors have wheelchair access including
access to toilets specially adapted for disabled people.
Volunteering
Services of the Executive Committee members are entirely voluntary and no
one is paid any remuneration or benefit in kind or cash.