OTHER FINALISTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
PETER Wheeler has created an op shop that welcomes people to socialise and seek help.
All profit from the Norlane Op Shop goes to an emergency fund for those in need.
If Peter is successful, Uniting Barwon will fund initiatives including a shopfront revamp, storage shed and laptops for locals to do job searches.
DEBI McKinnis gives grieving parents who have experienced stillbirth or have a child with a terminal illness precious photographic memories.
“Being with families and creating gentle images of their child is a privilege,” Ms McKinnis said.
If she is successful, Heartfelt will use the grant to cover the cost of 133 photographic sessions and 11 cameras for hospitals to use when Heartfelt is not available.
JAKE Janson left a career in construction to become a youth worker.
He trained with Ocean Mind, which runs free surf therapy programs for young people experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation and disabilities. Jake is now the program co-ordinator for the not-for-profit.
“I wake up every day and pinch myself about what I get to do for a living,” he said.
If Jake is successful, Ocean Mind will use its grant to run additional programs, buy equipment and provide transport to young people.
FIRST Nations woman Marsha Uppill is striving to close social and health gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
Her strategy is to educate organisations to help bring about change.
If successful, Arranyinha will use the grant to develop a Sistas Circle for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to increase self-confidence, connection and identity.
AFTER losing his sons, Reno Demicoli turned his attention to helping at-risk children by volunteering as a school mentor. He said helping members of the community added meaning to his golden years.
If Reno is successful, EdConnect will use its grant to train and place at least 30 new volunteers to help Geelong students.