Local clubs and community groups have the chance to secure much needed funding, with Benefit Geelong opening up its latest round of community grants.
The Geelong not-for-profit is now accepting applications for up to $15,000 of funding for community organisations wanting to help Greater Geelong and the region’s communities.
Established in late 2022, Benefit Geelong partners with Bendigo Bank to provide donations, grants, connections and advocacy for groups and projects aimed at improving the lives of people in the region.
Professor Chris Hickey, who has served as Benefit Geelong chair since its inception, said the organisation was keen to support projects with clear and achievable outcomes.
“We’re looking for things that are clearly strengthening social and community welfare, social impact, supporting health education, cultural initiatives, community engagement initiatives, things where the spend looks like it’s impactful,” Prof Hickey said.
“There is a lot of need out in our community that’s below the surface. There are a lot of groups doing good work, but there are a lot that could do with a bit of support.
“The list is endless, really, and it’s about looking for where you can be as impactful as possible given the parameters of the grant funding opportunity.”
Over the past year, Benefit Geelong has provided funding and support to projects and organisations such as Geelong Food Relief Centre, Cloverdale Community Centre, the Geelong Giving Tree appeal, and the Empowerment Challenge music program.
The organisation also provides scholarships for students wishing to attend university or TAFE.
Prof Hickey said Geelong was a “pretty unique community”, with a “genuine level of identity and connection amongst the community”.
“So to be able to give back to it and support it, see it grow and groups flourish and actually make a difference to real people in real settings has been fantastic,” he said
Applications can be made at benefitgeelong.com.au and are open until April 8.
