New report confirms social impact

A Social Impact Report completed by representatives from the Committee for Geelong’s ‘Leaders for Geelong’ Program has revealed Geelong Connected Communities’ (GCC) grants program is creating a positive social impact on communities in the Geelong region.

GCC’s grants program has assisted 450 local not-for-profit organisations to complete 860 community projects, with grants exceeding $2.4 million over the past 11 years.

The Social Impact Report indicates the GCC grants program helps build pride, resilience, and a sense of belonging in the Geelong region.

GCC Chair and Harwood Andrews principal Paul Gray said he was pleased the report revealed a “depth of trust and connection that GCC enjoys within communities in the region”.

“Many not-for-profit organisations have worked with GCC multiple times over recent years to complete their community projects,” Mr Gray said.

“Geelong Connected Communities seed capital is often the reason for community projects to advance from a planning stage into the reality of a completed project.

“Resourcing and empowering volunteerism can be a powerful force within community.

“The report speaks to the impact GCC programs are having on individuals wishing to express their sense of pride and belonging to their community and their willingness to contribute towards the resilience of community values that are so important for the success of future generations.”

GCC currently has the support of more than 30 local institutions and businesses.

The report confirms that over the past 11 years, 87.3 per cent of all monies raised have been used to directly fund a community project.

GCC is keen to speak with businesses and individuals who may wish to join its financial supporter base through its Foundation, which can provide donors with tax deductibility. “GCC can pledge that 100 per cent of all monies raised by the Foundation over the next 12 months, will be used to directly fund a community project in the Geelong region,” Mr Gray said.

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Pat Murnane on 0419 104 246 or John Fitzgerald on 0412 523 009 for further information.