The Ashburton Resource Centre Steering Committee was formed by members of ASHCOSS (Ashburton Council of Social Services) who in turn are representatives of various community support groups and agencies.  The steering committee was chaired by May Greenslade whom after being at a meeting in Auckland realised that many towns had a resource centre that enabled community members to access information and contacts for the local community services that were available to them.   May felt that the Ashburton Community and social service providers would benefit from such a centre.

The steering committee established a constitution and sought premises.   The certificate of charitable trust status was granted in December 1994.   Premises were found and the Centre opened its doors to the community in January 1995.   At first there were just two agencies resident as tenants, but this increased to five as the year progressed.  It also saw the agencies themselves flourish as some of them appointed more staff, and extended their office area.  Since R & R Sports have vacated - five new offices have been erected, with facilities available.

The Trust Board sets policy and makes the final decision on matters investigated and developed by the Manager.  A monthly meeting is held for this purpose and special meetings are called when necessary.

In 2002 a full time Manager was appointed and in 2008 the staff was increased with the appointment of an Administration Assistant.  In this way there is continuity of management and this has resulted in the efficient development of the method of operating the Centre.   The Trust Board has held the view from the inception of the Resource Centre proposal that the Co-ordinators' position be a paid position.  While this has resulted in the need for a larger budget to run the centre, without question the utilisation of the Centre has developed much faster as a result of the activity of the Co-ordinator.

A friendly voice on the telephone for those callers wanting know of the community services available.  Equally, a friendly and helpful person to greet visitors to the Centre who call looking for assistance and help from the welfare/social services providers around Mid Canterbury.

Office accommodation on an either permanent or shared basis is offered to non profit organisations.  A central telephone system (if required) allowing for messages to be taken if the organisations staff are not on the premises.  Central mail, photocopying and fax facilities, secretarial and typing services.  Receptionist for all organisations operating from the premises enabling appointments to be made.