GIVIT donation of the week: Slow cookers
Many families and individuals who lost homes and livelihoods in the Black Summer Bushfires are still living in temporary accommodation as they undergo the daunting task of rebuilding their homes. An organisation that supports those affected by the bushfires in the Snowy Monaro region is in need of key essential items to help their clients get back on track. Having a slow cooker would bring ease to their lives by allowing them to meet the daily recovery commitments and come home to a hot meal already prepared for their families. Many survivors have lost everything including all kitchen essentials. Any pre-loved, good quality slow cookers which can be donated will be greatly appreciated. Donations can be collected by or posted to the organisation. To donate, visit givit.org.au/donate-items, search by category ‘Slow Cookers’ to view requests located in your area. After you pledge the item, you will be contacted by the relevant organisation to arrange pick-up, post or drop-off. GIVIT supports more than 350 charities and community groups across the Capital Region by matching your items with people who need them most.
Rainbow Paws raffle
Tickets in the Rainbow Paws Program annual raffle are now on sale for $5 each with only 800 tickets available. Prizes include: one-night stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge (uShaka Lodge, valued at $1,195); $280 Pawtrait session with Wilomark Imagery and $500 credit for photos; Double pass for the Awesome Roarsome Tour at the National Zoo & Aquarium Canberra (valued at $250). Winners drawn on 31 December 2020 or when sold out, whichever comes first. To find out how to purchase tickets, visit @RainbowPawsProgram on Facebook.
Rotary Seniors Concert cancelled
The Rotary Club of Canberra has decided it must cancel the 2020 Rotary Seniors Concert due to COVID-19 issues with the age of the audience, massed singers, and the need for social distancing. With the support of COTA, Sing Australia, local musicians and many local aged care facilities, the Seniors Concert has been an annual feature of the Rotary Club of Canberra’s support of the local community since 1985. It is hoped the Seniors Concert can be held in 2021.
Volunteer Grant applications open
VolunteeringACT, on behalf of the Australian Government, is offering 2020 Supplementary Volunteer Grants to Volunteer Involving Organisations across the ACT to support the efforts of volunteers in building stronger, more resilient communities. Grants of $1,000 – $5,000 can be used by volunteer-based organisations to support the efforts of their volunteers and encourage and increase participation in volunteering. Funding can assist organisations transition their volunteering programs back into operation following the disruption caused by COVID-19, with grants to help re-engage volunteers and adapt practices to support volunteers’ safety. Applications close Sunday 20 September 11.59pm AEST. More info: volunteeringact.org.au/services/supplementary-volunteer-grants/
Corroboree Little Athletics Club
Canberra’s oldest Little Athletics club, Corroboree (North Canberra) Little Athletics is having a Come and Try Day for children aged 6-17 on Sunday 13 September 10am-12pm at Dickson Playing Fields.
More info: corroboreela.com
2020 Active Australia Innovation Challenge
The Heart Foundation is calling for entries in the 2020 Active Australia Innovation Challenge, which will award grants valued at $10,000 each for innovative community-based projects designed to get Aussies moving. Physical inactivity is a key risk factor for heart disease, which continues to be the single leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for more than one in 10 (11.1%) deaths in 2018. Past Active Australia Innovation Challenge winners have included surf lessons for children with autism; a “silent disco” for aged-care residents; and a program that enables people with a vision impairment to enjoy the social and physical benefits of cycling. Shortlisted applicants will have the chance to refine and pitch their ideas, before a panel of experts decides on up to 10 winners. They will each receive a grant of $10,000 to turn their project idea into a reality. Entries close 12 October. More info: campaigns.heartfoundation.org.au/aaic/
National LGBTIQ+ community grants
The ANZ and Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants program aims to increase support and inclusivity for the LGBTIQ+ community nationwide by providing grants of up to $10,000 to LGBTIQ+ not-for-profit community organisations, charities and individuals. The program provides funding for a wide range of purposes including education and training, creation, arts and culture, and community development. Since 2018, 30 grants have been awarded totalling $200,000. Applications close 4 October, with successful applicants announced the week commencing 16 November. More info: anz.com/mardigrasgrants
Self Care September
Epilepsy Action Australia’s new month-long initiative Self Care September has a life-changing message: it makes sense to put yourself first. Self Care September encourages all Australians to look after themselves better by joining four weekly interactive programs led by celebrities and thought leaders throughout September. Everyone is encouraged to participate in thecalendar of online talks, exclusive videos and resources. Check out Epilepsy Action Australia’s Facebook page where the program will be rolled out with sessions scheduled weekly. More info: epilepsy.org.au/selfcare/
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