CBA grant keeps DSA Ocean Grove riding waves

THE Ocean Grove branch of the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia (DSA) will keep helping people of all abilities enjoy the surf for the next two years after receiving a 2020 CommBank Staff Foundation Community Grant.
The DSA provides an inclusive experience for all people with any disability to experience the rush of riding a wave.
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s (CBA) Ocean Grove branch, who are long-time supporters of the DSA and whose staff often volunteer at the biannual surfing events, nominated the Ocean Grove DSA for the $10,000 grant.
The funding will go towards operational costs and helping DSA Ocean Grove plan the events for the next summer season.
“We feel so fortunate to have received this grant as it means we will be able to continue to give people with all types of disabilities the experience of riding a wave,” DSA Ocean Grove president Phil Christie said.
“Before COVID-19, we weren’t sure we would have the funding to keep us going as we are heavily reliant on the generosity of local businesses.
“Considering the tough year many have faced with first bushfires, and now the pandemic, we understood that many people wouldn’t have the spare funds to give to charity.
“With this grant from CBA, we’ll be able to keep the organisation running for the next two years as long as COVID safely allows us to get back on the beach and run events – it truly is a blessing.
“Many people think the work we do just helps those with less demanding disabilities, but we cater to all and pull out all the stops needed to get people in the water and enjoying a surf.”
Now in its 102nd year, the CommBank Staff Foundation has a strong history of supporting youth-focused organisations through the Community Grants Program. The $2 million dollar program is made up of fortnightly contributions by CBA staff, which are matched by the bank.
With many Australians recovering from the devastation caused by the recent bushfires, followed by the economic impact of the coronavirus, 2020 marks the first year in the program’s history that CBA employees have been able to nominate any eligible organisation or charity in their local community that needs a financial boost.
Recipients of this year’s grants are working to address a diverse range of issues across the community, including homelessness, Indigenous disadvantage, domestic violence and cancer support.