Prominent local philanthropy group the Buderim Foundation launched a new, ongoing fundraising initiative at the end of January, as part of the hilltop town’s busy Australia Day Parade.
Rooted in the belief that from little gifts, big things grow, the Foundation introduced their 2019 Regular Giving Program, in order to expand their celebrated Community Grants Program.
Buderim Foundation committee member Natasha Read, herself a long-time Buderim resident, said the program is an ideal for those already accustomed to automatic payments.
“There are many areas in my life that I am used to making ongoing contributions towards, including bills or other donations, so doing the same thing for the Buderim Foundation just seemed to make sense,” Ms Read said.
“I was keen to contribute to the great work the Foundation does for our community, and while it might not seem like a lot each time, my donations will accumulate to become something much bigger.”
Foundation Chair Russell Stitz said the program gives people of all ages and means the power to make a difference through regular contributions.
“All amounts are gratefully received and while they can be made as a one-off donation, a quarterly or monthly contribution may be more manageable and affordable for some,” Mr Stitz said.
“Donations are never spent; the Buderim Foundation operates under a money in – money managed – money out model, whereby all contributions are invested in what we call the Foundation Fund.
“It is only the interest earned from that Fund that we then distribute annually via grants.
“Continuing to grow our capital means we help even more organisations in Buderim achieve their goals through our Community Grants Program.”
Last year, the Buderim Foundation awarded a record amount of more than $75,000 in grants to 23 community-based organisations, as part of its biggest ever Community Grants Celebration since the program started in 2008.
Among the 2018 recipients are the unique children’s reading initiative Story Dogs who are using the funds to upgrade their picture-book library; the Beautiful You Program, awarded $4,700 for a Health and Wellbeing program for cancer sufferers and The Compass Institute, awarded $8,000 to run a Beach Safety and Awareness program for all trainees.
The Buderim Foundation Grants Program is open to not-for-profit community-based organisations that provide services and support for residents in the 4556 postcode.
Grants are awarded to projects relating to eight areas of interest including those which seek to strengthen the fabric of the community, help residents live healthy and fulfilling lives and protect and preserve our natural environment.
For more information on the Buderim Foundation, and to find out how you can join the Regular Giving Program please visit the website – www.buderimfoundation.org.au.
