The are-able Foundation is a community-focused fund established in 2004 to support organisations that improve access and opportunities for people living with a disability or disadvantage. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed more than $1.6 million to businesses and community organisations throughout Victoria. Annually, the Foundation provides up to $100,000 in grants, with applicants eligible to apply for up to $5,000 each.

As a community-based not-for-profit organisation, are-able channels funding back into regional communities through the are-able Foundation and specialist programs, reinforcing its commitment to working with local organisations to assist those facing barriers due to disability or disadvantage.

Purpose

The are-able Foundation’s purpose is to reduce barriers and promote inclusiveness for people living with a disability or disadvantage, enabling them to participate fully in community life. It provides assistance to community organisations, supporting initiatives that help individuals develop skills, build connections, and grow within their communities.

Values

The Foundation operates in alignment with are-able’s core values:

Integrity: Acting with honesty, trust, and transparency at all times, responding without bias and following through on commitments with accountability.

Respect: Recognising diversity and valuing every person’s uniqueness and contributions.

Empathy: Taking into account differing perspectives and experiences with understanding and compassion.

Innovation: Continuously seeking better ways to tackle challenges, embracing innovation in all its forms.

 

2025 Grant Recipients

Congratulations to the organisations awarded a 2025 are-able Foundation Community Grant:

  • Ararat
    • Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network
  • Ballarat
    • The Aboriginal Literacy Foundation
    • Ballarat International Foto Biennale
  • Colac
    • The Salvation Army Colac
  • Geelong
    • Corner Boxing Co.
    • Freedom Sports Foundation Limited
    • Lazarus Community Centre Geelong Ltd
    • Bluebird Foundation
  • Hamilton
    • GSGLLEN
    • Dunkeld Recreation Reserve Inc.
    • Riding for the Disabled – Hamilton Centre
  • Horsham
    • Horsham Neighbourhood House
  • Mildura
    • CatholicCare Victoria
    • Garden of HOPE Mildura INC
    • Robinvale Community Garden Committee / Our Place Robinvale
  • Portland
    • HEYWOOD MEN’S TALK GROUP INC
    • United Way Glenelg
  • Shepparton
    • Greater Shepparton Basketball Association Inc
    • Kyabram Blue Light
  • Swan Hill
    • Swan Hill Community Toy Library
  • Warrnambool
    • Disabled Surfers Association Great South Coast Victoria
    • Warrnambool Breastfeeding Centre
    • Merri River School
    • Western District Food Share Inc

Commitment to Community

are-able is proud to be part of the communities it serves, supporting initiatives that empower individuals, break down barriers, and foster inclusiveness. Through the are-able Foundation, we continue to invest in projects that promote opportunity, skill-building, and growth for those living with disability or disadvantage.