BALLARAT CONNECTED COMMUNITIES CREATES LASTING LEGACY

After years of championing collaboration, community wellbeing and local solutions, Ballarat Connected Communities has taken an important step to ensure its impact continues for generations to come through the establishment of the Ballarat Connected Communities Fund with the Ballarat Foundation.  

Established with a significant gift of $170,000, the Fund will provide ongoing support for initiatives, projects and programs that strengthen the social and economic wellbeing of people across Ballarat and surrounding communities.  

Over many years, Ballarat Connected Communities brought together local organisations, government, business and community leaders to identify challenges, share knowledge and develop solutions that improve outcomes for local people. Through its commitment to collaboration and evidence-based community action, BCC helped shine a light on issues affecting our region and encouraged collective action. 

Recognising the importance of creating a lasting legacy, Ballarat Connected Communities chose to partner with the Ballarat Foundation to establish a perpetual community fund that will continue supporting local communities long into the future.  

The Fund will support initiatives that proactively and responsibly enhance prosperity and social outcomes across the Ballarat region. Priority may be given to issues identified through Ballarat's Vital Signs research, including challenges such as housing and homelessness, food insecurity, mental health and other emerging community needs.  

As an endowed fund, the capital will be invested and preserved, generating annual income that can be distributed through grants to community organisations delivering meaningful local impact. This approach ensures the original gift continues to benefit the community year after year.  

Chair of the Ballarat Foundation, Ellen Jackson welcomed the establishment of the Fund. 

"The Ballarat Connected Communities Fund represents a powerful commitment to Ballarat's future. This fund will ensure the work and vision of Ballarat Connected Communities continues to make a difference for generations to come." 

Community members, organisations and supporters are invited to contribute to the Fund and help grow its long-term impact. 

Every donation made to the Ballarat Connected Communities Fund will remain local, supporting initiatives that create stronger, more connected and thriving communities across the Ballarat region.