Transformed Lives, Strengthened Communities, Reduced Disadvantage

Broadmeadows and its surrounding suburbs often bear the dubious honour of featuring in the lists of Australia's most disadvantaged postcodes. Some of the chronic issues affecting these areas include extremely high unemployment, very low levels of education and income, and health issues such as type II diabetes, obesity and smoking. Yet beyond all these statistics is a community brimming with ingenuity, cultural diversity and a huge range of skills, experiences, hopes and aspirations. Few places encapsulate the energy and creativity of our local community like Banksia Gardens Community Services.

Why are we collecting funds?

Everyone, particularly children and young people, should have opportunities to maximise their potential and make a positive change to their future.

We believe that the best way to do this is by giving our clients the tools to support themselves, learn and prosper. We work to give everyone access not just to opportunity, but to civic engagement, to meaningful participation and to greater justice.

In order to continue this work, we need to rely less on short-term government grants and more on support from the Australian community.

How will the funds be used?

The funds will be used to support programs such as the following:

• After-School Program: Providing free academic support, sports and recreation to over 150 young people every week.
• Aiming High VCE Support Program: Weekly tutition for year 11 and 12 students. Over 300 participants have been involved in the program and the majority have gone on to achieve places in tertiary institutions.
• Broady Bikes: Upskilling young people with bike maintenance skills and providing free or low cost bikes to the community.
• Common Bean Social Enterprise Cafe: providing employment and training to local young people.
• Community Connections: Supporting and running events and activities for residents on the Broadmeadows Housing Estate.
• Good People Act Now (GPAN): Youth-led prevention of violence against women project working to make positive change in the Broadmeadows Community.

For more detailed information about our programs and services, please visit our website.

You will be sent an automatic receipt when you make your donation. If you wish to discuss a donation or bequest, please contact Georgina Wheeler on georgina.w@banksiagardens.org.au