Community Giving Fund open to applications from Great Southern charities and not-for-profit orginisations

Great Southern-based charities and not-for-profit organisations are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to $10,000 from Synergy’s Community Giving Fund. The fund, which is in its second year, aims to support organisations that make a positive impact on people. In the fund’s first year about $70,000 was shared between eight recipients, including two with connections to the Great Southern. Ocean Heroes, which runs inclusive events in Denmark and Albany, received funding to funding to purchase paddle boards for people on the autism spectrum. Ocean Heroes Co-Founder Sam Moyle said the new specialised SUPS mean more children with autism get to experience the thrill of catching a wave at free events. “The impacts of these events are far reaching, lasting long after the end of a surf session, building confidence and self-esteem with each participant, and creating an inclusive environment for families to enjoy the beach,” he said. Denmark Environment Centre also received funding to support a team of citizen scientists carry out a “bioblitz” of Mount Hallowell. It involved documenting a diverse range of unique flora and fauna species that form part of the biodiversity hotspot. For more details and to apply for the grants search for Community Giving Fund on Synergy’s website. Applications close on august 14.