In its 25th anniversary year, the IMB Community Foundation has announced funding for another 58 diverse community projects. This brings the total number of grassroots initiatives supported since the Foundation’s inception to over 1,000 with more than $12m pledged in grant funding.
This year’s grants will benefit communities in the Illawarra, NSW South Coast, Canberra, SouthernHighlands, Greater Sydney, Newcastle and Melbourne.
IMB Bank CEO Robert Ryan says funding from the IMB Community Foundation is the financial lifeline needed to help local community heroes continue their important work.
“For 25 years, IMB Bank has been privileged to play our part in supporting thousands of community heroes through our Foundation. We've seen firsthand how this funding transforms lives and communities and at a time when many community organisations are facing financial strain, the importance to support them is greater than ever.
"What stands out this year is the diversity of projects we're supporting – each addressing important and varied needs within their communities. From innovative social programs and critical environmental efforts to cultural enrichment and cutting-edge educational initiatives, it's truly inspiring to witness the breadth of impact these projects will have,” said Mr Ryan.
Jann Gardner, IMB Community Foundation Chair, said the Foundation's 25-year journey has been one of profound impact.
“Over the past 25 years, we've watched with pride as projects we have funded have grown, flourished, and created lasting positive change.
“It's humbling to think of the countless lives touched and communities strengthened through these initiatives, and as we mark this significant milestone, we're not just celebrating our 2024 recipients and those of years past; we're recommitting our financial support for grass roots community groups and their change makers for years to come."
In 2024, the IMB Community Foundation identified and funded a diverse array of projects that span six key areas of community need and development:
1. Social: Projects that mentor and empower men and women in our communities, build inclusion, diversity and equity, inspire the young, and support the disadvantaged and vulnerable.
2. Environmental: Initiatives that improve the environment, regenerate habitats, encourage recycling, recover from disaster and adopt sustainable energy.3. Cultural: Programs that nurture culture and recognise and preserve heritage and history.
4. Educational: Helping individuals acquire skills, break free and embrace new challenges, and support mental and physical health and wellbeing.
5. Community Development: Projects that enhance community experiences, deliver economic and social benefits, and develop community assets supporting shared prosperity.
6. Community Connection: Initiatives that bring communities together, connecting residents, businesses, the vulnerable and volunteers for mutual benefit.
Explore the 25th anniversary celebration and 2024 funded projects.
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