The South West Community Foundation has set an ambitious minimum target of $250,000 for its 2016 appeal as it struggles to keep up with demand for support.
The launch of the appeal follows the recent announcement of grants worth more than $150,000.
The 2016 appeal is following the theme ‘Supporting the South West’.
Appeal chairman Brad Henderson said that it was vital for the continued growth and granting power of the Foundation. “With interest rates so low, demand for grants increasing and inflation eating away at the value of what we can do, a target of $250,000 is really the minimum we would hope to achieve this year,” Mr Henderson said.
“At a time when governments are looking for ways to restrict spending, the capacity for a region to be able to help itself is invaluable,” he said. “This seems to be particularly true in regional areas.”
“This year we were involved with distributing about $150,000, but this only covered about half of the requests we received. Next year we would love to be able to distribute $200,000 and get a little closer to meeting the needs of the region.”
Supporting the South West is getting underway with a traditional post out and email appeal but this year several other ways to give are available. Donations can be made directly by smart phone by texting ‘GIVE’ to 0417 666 397. A simple regular gift or payroll deduction arrangement can also be quickly set up by contacting the Foundation’s Executive Officer, Karen Norris on 0437 756 082.
“We live in a very fortunate and beautiful part of the world – but even here there are needs: Individuals that need support; ideas that will strengthen or enrich our communities; causes that depend on community input. The Foundation provides the opportunity for those who can to support those who can’t. It’s us ‘Supporting the South West.’ ” Mr Henderson said.
Other ways of donating can be found on our website.