Ready to pitch supportive and accepting

Projects compete for funding

Three local community organisations are eagerly seeking an injection of funds to undertake vital projects that will benefit their community in the Glenelg Shire.

These initiatives aim to address various needs and enhance community engagement, fostering a stronger and more inclusive environment for all.

United Way Glenelg’s SharkPitch event, now in its fifth year, has over previous years secured more than $210,000 in donations from generous supporters, and serves as a platform for small grassroots community organisations to present their projects to a virtual audience. This interactive event empowers donors, promoting inclusivity and greater community involvement.

Once again, AWA Alliance Bank is generously supporting the event by providing matched donations.

This means that for every donation made, AWA Alliance Bank will contribute an equal amount, effectively doubling the impact of each donor’s contribution up to a total of $6000 per organisations.

“The annual Shark Pitch event has become a standout event for AWA and something we look forward to each year,” AWA Alliance Bank CEO Gavin Heathcotesaid. “It is important for AWA to support our local communities and each year we see such fantastic organisations come forward so it’s such a privilege to be able to contribute to their causes. The overall impact to the Glenelg community from this event has proven to be outstanding and we can’t wait to see what this year’s pitch brings.”

United Way Glenelg executive officer Nicole Carr said Shark Pitch presented a remarkable opportunity to establish meaningful connections between donors and community organisations.

“This platform enables individuals who wish to contribute, whether through financial means, their time, or by offering services and products, to connect with established organisations in need of support. It serves as a bridge, linking the generosity of those willing to give back with the organizations that can benefit from their support,” she said.

“Furthermore, Shark Pitch provides an avenue for community groups to enhance the skills of their staff and volunteers in areas such as public presentations, pitching, and self-marketing. By participating in Shark Pitch, these organisations can strengthen their abilities to effectively communicate their mission and engage with potential supporters.

This not only increases their chances of securing assistance but also empowers them to create greater awareness and recognition for their important work within the community,” Ms Carr said.

2023 PITCHERS Kane Forbes, Community Engagement Officer representing Hands Up Casterton, will be presenting a compelling project aimed at establishing a free community space. This initiative aims to provide accessible opportunities for young people, fostering community engagement and promoting social connectivity. The funding obtained will be utilised to secure a space, set it up, and cover utility and rent costs for a period of six months. Following the initial phase, a more permanent solution will be sought to ensure the sustainability of the space.

Hannah Palfreyman, an Education Support and grant writer and Hayley Pumpa, a student at Portland Bay School, will be passionately advocating for the Fit-Together project. The primary objective of the Fit-Together project is to provide students at Portland Bay School with access to safe and appropriate permanent outdoor fitness equipment, with a focus on improving their physical and mental well-being. This initiative aims to reduce stress, anxiety, and enhance overall mood, which is particularly crucial for children with special needs who may face challenges in social interactions or emotional regulation. By installing this specialised equipment, the project aims to promote inclusion for all students and foster a more supportive and accepting school community.

Jack Thorp and Stella Middleton, representing the Portland BMX Club, will address the pressing issue of replacing the deteriorating canteen. Despite being the youngest presenters, their enthusiasm and dedication to their sport are undeniable. Their presentation will shed light on the urgent necessity of a canteen, as the current facilities no longer meet the demands of the growing membership. A newer, larger building on a concrete base, along with a separate BBQ shed, would accommodate the club’s expanding membership and ensure its continued success.

These three initiatives represent community projects that have the potential to make a significant and lasting impact.

The presenters will undergo a comprehensive training workshop, where they will receive invaluable support from Deb Crespan. Mrs Crespan generously volunteers her time to provide guidance and expertise, helping the pitchers refine their presentation skills and deliver their best pitch. The presenters will be equipped with the necessary tools and confidence to effectively convey their ideas and make a compelling case to a virtual audience.

Powerhouse Productions will capture the essence of each organisation in a one-minute video and present it in a concise and engaging manner to inspire donors to support their cause.

The virtual event will be held on Tuesday, September 5, starting at 7pm. The event will be held on Crowd cast, the same platform as previous years. https://www. crowdcast.io/c/2023sharkpitch You can join from any mobile device or computer. Android users can join events directly through the link, and those with an iOS device like iPad or iPhone can attend from a browser or download the Crowd cast app.

Audience members will have two different opportunities to watch passionate grassroots organisations pitch their projects to raise funds for better outcomes for local people and the community.

United Way Glenelg together with the Royal Hotel CoolRoom and Casterton Football Netball Club will be hosting watch parties enabling community members to come together and cheer on their organisation, watching it unfold on the large screen. This event is FREE to attend.

If you wish to attend the event at the Royal Hotel CoolRoom please contact United Way Glenelg on 0410 513 305 or email mail@ unitedwayglenelg.com.au to secure your seat.