Case Study – SWCF & United Way Glenelg

UNITED WAY GLENELG –  IMPACT THROUGH SWCF SUPPORT

Organisation Overview
United Way Glenelg is a not-for-profit organisation based in Portland. With a mission to
enhance the quality of life for residents in the Glenelg Shire, United Way Glenelg focusses
on addressing key community needs in the areas of health, education, and financial stability.
By working alongside local community partners, the organisation drives impactful programs
that aim to create sustainable positive change for individuals and families within the region.
Support from SWCF
For the past five years, United Way Glenelg has received support from the South West
Community Foundation. The foundation has played an instrumental role in funding two key
initiatives: the Back-to-School Program and the SharkPitch project. The support has
included grants, application assistance, and processing support that has helped bring these
programs to fruition.

The Impact of SWCF’s Support
Back-to-School Program: The Back-to-School Program, funded by SWCF, provides
essential school supplies to students in need, alleviating the financial burden on families and
ensuring that students have the tools they need to participate fully in their education. This
support has had a significant impact on local students, fostering not only academic success
but also helping to create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
SharkPitch: In addition to the Back-to-School Program, SWCF also funded the SharkPitch
initiative. This initiative provided three local organisations with the resources needed to bring
their project pitches to life. The funds have been pivotal in supporting community-driven
projects that address specific needs, including the creation of dedicated youth spaces and
other local improvements.

Successes and Achievements
A standout success of the SharkPitch initiative was the project supported by Casterton
Youth HQ. The funding enabled Casterton Youth HQ to establish a dedicated youth space
for the local community. The space quickly became a focal point for young people in the
region, offering a range of programs designed to engage, educate, and empower youth.
These programs included motor mechanic workshops, DJ lessons, cooking classes, and
expanded access to arts.
The initiative has been particularly successful during its initial six-month pilot phase,
garnering continued support from other organisations to ensure its ongoing operation. By
creating a space where young people could explore their interests and develop valuable
skills, Casterton Youth HQ helped support a sense of belonging, creativity, and community
engagement.

Growth and Future Impact
As a result of SWCF’s support, United Way Glenelg has been able to build on its success
and create lasting change. With funding for the Back-to-School Program no longer available
from FRRR, United Way Glenelg recognised that the need for continued support for students
was critical. In response, the organisation established the School Resilience Fund, which
offers up to $500 to schools for use in ways they determine are most beneficial to their
students’ needs. This fund empowers schools to take proactive steps in addressing the
unique challenges faced by students, ensuring they have the resources and support needed
to thrive academically and socially.
Through the generous support of SWCF, United Way Glenelg has been able to make a
measurable and lasting impact on the local community. From providing essential school
supplies via the Back-to-School Program to empowering youth through the SharkPitch
initiative, SWCF’s support has helped create a more resilient and connected Glenelg Shire.
United Way Glenelg looks forward to continuing its partnership with SWCF and expanding
its efforts to meet the evolving needs of the community.