Viva Energy Australia (“Viva Energy”) is delighted to open applications for its Role Model Grants program to the communities of Geelong (VIC), Newport (VIC), Greenwich (NSW), Clyde (NSW), and Pinkenba (QLD) .
In its second year, not-for-profit organisations across Geelong, Newport, Greenwich, Clyde and Pinkenba are invited to apply for grants of up to $5,000 to assist with programs addressing one of three significant social challenges in the community - mental illness, substance misuse and breaking the poverty cycle through education.
The grants are designed to support the members of the local community who are making a real difference. Applications are judged on overall community impact and the ability to make lasting changes for those involved.
Last year, Viva Energy granted a total of $50,000 to help fund community projects in our heartland communities. One of these projects was Gateway Community Services in Newport (Melbourne) who received a $5,000 grant to fund its Youth Future Pathways Program. The three-week program saw 21 Warringa Park School students aged 17 and 18 who have a disability develop new skills and optimism for their future beyond school.
The program encouraged these students to identify their strengths and talents and explore ways to develop them through career pathways and further study.
Gateway Board member Zytel Hircoe said, “These young people have been empowered through this program. It’s enabled them to shift their mindset about what they’re able to achieve and are now in a far better position to maximise their talents.
“Importantly they’re now focused on their abilities rather than their disabilities and we’d like to thank Viva Energy for helping make this happen,” she said.
Viva Energy Community Manager, Jo Powell said, “We are committed to giving back to our local communities. Supporting role models who are making a difference within the communities they serve through our Role Model Grant program is just one way we can achieve this.
“I’d like to encourage eligible not for profit businesses across Geelong, Newport, Greenwich, Clyde and Pinkenba to apply for a grant to help bring their projects to life and make a positive impact on those around them.”
The Role Model Grants program is part of Viva Energy’s overall community partnership program where up to $6 million is being invested over four-years to support community projects aimed at mental health, Indigenous participation and substance misuse.
Applications for this year’s Role Model Grants program close on 20 November 2017.
For more information and tips on how to submit an application, go to our website www.vivaenergy.com.au/community .