🌱 Welcome to the GROW Fund
The GROW Fund is a new charitable initiative of the South West Community Foundation, supporting schools across South West Victoria to create hands-on learning environments and safe, nurturing spaces that help children and young people thrive.
We have had a long history of supporting schools through the FRRR’s ‘Back to School’ voucher program, and while that program has come to an end, the GROW fund will continue.
🌿 What is the GROW Fund?
The GROW Fund provides funding to support:
- – Kitchen gardens
- – Wellbeing and “nurture” rooms
- – Outdoor classrooms and sensory spaces
- – Hands-on, practical learning programs
These projects build resilience, improve student wellbeing, and help all children feel connected, supported, and ready to learn.
Why It Matters
More students are arriving at school needing support — socially, emotionally, and physically.
The GROW Fund helps schools respond by funding spaces and programs that:
- Build confidence through hands-on learning
- Improve mental health with calm, reflective spaces
- Connect children to food, nature and community
- Support children experiencing disadvantage
Inspired by Josie Black OAM
The GROW Fund honours the legacy of Josie Black, the founding visionary of the South West Community Foundation.
A passionate and innovative educator, Josie believed in nurturing the whole child. Her commitment to education, wellbeing and community continues to guide our work today.
All donations to the GROW Fund are held in a dedicated sub-fund managed by the South West Community Foundation. Grants are distributed to eligible, school-based initiatives across South West Victoria.
We are committed to transparency, accountability and long-term impact, and we welcome community input at every stage.
💛 How You Can Help
Your support helps create environments where every child can grow, thrive and belong.
You can:
- 🟡 Make a tax-deductible donation
- 🟡 Partner with a local school project
- 🟡 Leave a legacy gift in your Will
- 🟡 Host a fundraiser for the GROW Fund
💬 Join Us
Together, we can grow stronger communities — one school at a time.
📧 info@southwestcommunityfoundation.org
🌐 www.southwestcommunityfoundation.org
📞 0437 756 082
💸 Donation Details
Your donation is processed securely through our partner:
Australian Communities Foundation
All donations are tax-deductible and receipted in your name.
Donate online: https://australiacf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=2043
Prefer to donate via bank transfer?
Bank: National Australia Bank
Name: Australian Communities Foundation
BSB: 083-004
ACC: 78-126-4534
Reference: 24389
After making your donation, please email us at info@southwestcommunityfoundation.org with:
- Donation amount
2. Date of transfer
3. The name(s) to appear on the receipt
