Geelong Connected Communities was established to enhance the social and economic wellbeing of the Geelong community.

Since our inception in 2014, the organisation has provided 754 grants worth $2,147,275 to support local initiatives across the Geelong region.

Bringing together contributions from more than 40 businesses and organisations, we distribute funds to mostly small, volunteer-driven and not-for-profit entities. In the past year, despite pandemic challenges, $106,883 has been delivered via 38 grants.

10 distinct categories range from arts & culture, environment, health & wellbeing and events to youth, community safety, diversity & inclusion and sport. Categories ensure a broad cross section of the community is benefitting from the projects and initiatives Geelong Connected Communities is supporting.

Just a small sample of recent recipients includes Lazarus Community Centre for homeless services, Barwon Child Youth and Family for their foster care programs and Norlane Community Initiatives establishing community support presence in their precinct. The list continues with the likes of Medimime Productions, Geelong Cycling Club, Cottage by the Sea and the Belmont Bowls Club.

“We are incredbly proud of the broad and ongoing impact Geelong Connected Communities is having, particuarly for small, volunteer-run organisations” Pat Murnane, Executive Board Support, Geelong Connected Communities said.

We recognise the contributions of our two major sponsors Signature Homes and AWA Alliance Bank. Their significant financial input underpins the delivery of resources to a number of Geelong region not-for-profit groups and organisations.

The voluntary board is planning a major fundraising event this Spring and will invite the Geelong business community and residents to get involved to celebrate our region, the season and make a contribution to the ongoing work of this organisation.