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Cast Your Vote for our ISPT Community Kickstart Recipient.

We are proud to present our three exceptional finalists in the running to receive the $10,000 Community Kickstart Grant.

This funding is more than a donation; it’s an investment in a brighter future, empowering one of these remarkable initiatives to elevate its impact and create positive change within our local community.

Your participation is paramount. From October 20th to November 9th, cast your vote for the finalist that resonates most deeply with your vision.

Every person who casts a vote will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card. Terms and conditions apply.

Click here to cast your vote and make a difference!

Your vote empowers these inspiring initiatives. Share this opportunity with your networks to encourage them to participate. Together, we can champion these exceptional organisations and empower one to to continue their work.

The recipient of the $10,000 grant will be announced on November 10th. Thank you for being an integral part of this program and for helping us build a more vibrant and connected community.

Learn about our deserving finalists below and the inspiring work they’re doing.

Phunktional Limited

Beyond the Walls Program

As Phunktional Arts, we are a confident and energetic not-for-profit committed to transforming lives through community-driven arts programs. Our work empowers young people, particularly from First Nations, multicultural, and disadvantaged backgrounds, fostering resilience, identity, and pathways to self-determination through culturally safe creative expression. The Community Kickstart Grant will directly fund Phase One of our impactful “Beyond the Walls” program in the Riverina Youth Justice Centres: Yarning Circles. These culturally safe gatherings, led by YARN Australia, will bring together young people, Elders, community services, and artists for open dialogue, ensuring the program is shaped by local needs and cultural knowledge. This vital first step, covering facilitator fees, transport, catering, and materials, will build trust and cultural pride, ultimately reducing recidivism and strengthening our community through the power of storytelling, mentoring, dance, and theatre.

Wagga Women’s Health Centre

Expansion of Women’s Health Hub Services

As Wagga Women’s Health Centre, an independent not-for-profit, we have proudly supported women’s health and well-being across the Riverina since 1979, providing a safe and inclusive space where women can be heard, supported, and empowered. The Community Kickstart Grant will significantly strengthen our personal care pack support service and establish portable Women’s Health Hubs across Wagga Wagga and surrounding areas. This vital funding will be used to purchase personal care products, creating over 180 essential packs for women in crisis. These innovative hubs will serve as visible donation stations and discreetly provide access to crucial women’s health resources, including domestic and family violence support. This initiative fosters generosity, reduces stigma, and connects vulnerable women with essential pathways to support, promoting ongoing community contribution and long-term benefits for a healthier, more connected Riverina.

Dymocks Children’s Charities

Wagga Wagga Library Regeneration Program

As Dymocks Children’s Charities, for 25 years, we have been dedicated to improving literacy outcomes for disadvantaged children across Australia, fostering a love of reading and providing access to quality books. With the Community Kickstart Grant, we will launch the Wagga Wagga Library Regeneration Program, restocking libraries in two disadvantaged schools with brand-new, high-quality books selected by teaching staff to meet the specific needs of over 600 students. With matched funding, we can double the investment to $20,000, delivering over 1,000 new books, igniting imaginations, boosting confidence, and creating healthier educational outcomes. Together, we’re building a brighter Wagga Wagga through literacy, ensuring school libraries are inclusive, safe, welcoming and relevant spaces for all.