During 2019 we launched a new program for the disbursement of funds, our "Community Grants." The aim of our Community Grants program is to direct money into community based initiatives that truly make a difference right across the country. Here are a few examples of the community initiatives we have funded of late.
A community not-for-profit organisation, Shaping Futures, was granted $5000 to fund ten outreach community visits using their "Regional Youth Bus" (pictured left). They have previously transformed an ageing bus into a mobile facility that provides a place for youth to visit. They can hang-out in the bus which is equipped with modern technology to enjoy, and while there they can engage with volunteers and staff to access a host of information and support. They can get information on all sorts of things to do with career planning, health and well being.
Shaping Futures say that:
Although the Regional Youth Bus can only be in one place at a time, young people can stay continually connected with the bus through social media. They can make contact with staff, find a range of information, and view funny and inspiring stories and memes.
This Social Media platform is another innovative part of the project. Through the Social Media Internship Program young people from across the region will be developing the content for the page while learning valuable skills in this emerging career path from industry professionals, Social Media Monitors, based in Brisbane.
Volunteering will be another focus. Organisations and community members can promote volunteering to young people or be volunteers themselves, providing more opportunities to connect young people with their local communities.