Community grant applications close 31 March 2019

Are you a not-for-profit business or community-based program? Do you contribute to the needs or social activity of  people with disability or disadvantage?  You may be eligible for an are-able Foundation grant!

You have until the end of March 2019 to apply for up to $10,000 in funding.

The are-able Foundation, formerly known as the are-able Charitable Trust, is a perpetual fund allocating up to $10,000 per organisation per year, to foster programs and initiatives that help people with a disability or disadvantage to gain employment, employment-related skills, or training, social involvement and access to their local community. Applications for the latest round of Foundation funding close at midnight Sunday 31 March 2019.

are-able Chair Mary Graham said the organisation initiated the Foundation to support community groups and programs in the regions that are-able operates.

“The process of reviewing and accessing applications demonstrates just how innovative and passionate our communities are about finding ways to increase inclusion and skill development for those who can find themselves isolated or disadvantage, be that due to where they live, their education, or physical or mental disability,” she said.

The Foundation has contributed almost $900,000 to local community groups as part of the organisation’s vision to change people’s lives and strengthen communities.

The Foundation’s allocations have, in the recent rounds, created opportunities such as the funding for a defibrillator in a regional Men’s Shed, local schools ‘paddock to plate’ program, a trailer for the disabled surfers organisation and other sporting groups who have improved disability access, just to name a few.

“The list of projects we have, and can fund, is diverse and different – we look forward each year to seeing what the latest round of applications brings, because it highlights how creative, resourceful and passionate people in regional Victoria are about helping people without a job, or access to facilities and opportunities many of us take for granted.”

Allocations from the Foundation are typically made twice a year, with a subcommittee of are-able’s Committee of Management charged with reviewing and selecting applications.

The sub-committee prioritises applications from not-for-profit entities, who can demonstrate how an initiative or project benefits people living with a disability or disadvantage, or assists people with a disability or disadvantage boost future job prospects.

Organisations or groups interested in the are-able Foundation can click here for more details, contact their local are-able office or phone1800 566 066.

Applications must be endorsed by, and submitted via a locally-based are-able office. We look forward to hearing from you!