In Summary
- Council announces the successful completion of eight community-led initiatives funded by the Empowering Communities Grants.
- The projects, part of the Department of Justice and Community Safety's Building Safer Communities Program, focused on improving safety outcomes for young people through innovative approaches to local issues.
- Over $500,000 in grants were awarded to various local organisations, including Giz a Break, Masomo Mbele Foundation, and GV Gangaru Parasports.
- The projects have not only achieved their goals but also created ongoing opportunities and a ripple effect of positive change in the community.
This initiative was designed to improve safety outcomes for young people by taking innovative approaches to addressing local issues around community safety, connection, access and support.
Funding was distributed through a competitive community grants program, resulting in the successful awarding of grants to eight impactful projects. The following applicants received funding to support their vital community-led initiatives:
- Giz a Break: $80,000
- Masomo Mbele Foundation: $100,000
- International Association for Interactive Nurses: $40,000
- Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre: $40,000
- Shepparton Secure Kids: $20,000
- GV Gangaru Parasports: $100,000
- Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project: $100,000
- Umoja Empowerment Group: $20,000
Each of these projects demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing community safety concerns and reaching their common goal of having a primary focus on community where, at its core, each initiative improves safety outcomes for young people.
Since their completion, many of these projects have evolved and expanded their initiatives, resulting in ongoing opportunities for the community. Through the ongoing efforts of these projects, there is a ripple effect of positive change, which ultimately enhances safety and inclusion across the region.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated each of the successful applicants for their work on the projects.
“I want to acknowledge all of the successful applicants and congratulate them on their dedication and hard work in bringing these projects to life,” he said.
“The contributions which each of these projects have provided to the community are invaluable in building a safer, more inclusive Greater Shepparton.”
For further information visit Council's Empowering Communities Grant Projects webpage here, phone Council on 5832 9700 or email empoweringcommunities@shepparton.vic.gov.au.
