Community grants are one way that Albert-Eden Local Board encourages a sense of community, nurtures local arts, enhances the area’s environment and heritage and makes Albert-Eden safer and more supportive.
“We’re pleased to help fund a wide array of groups and projects that work for our communities. Even quite a small grant can make a meaningful difference to organisations big and small,” says Albert-Eden Local Board Chair Peter Haynes.
Albert-Eden Local Board made grants totalling $138,503 to community groups this financial year. There were three quick response rounds and two local grant rounds.
Creativity and the arts light up our neighbourhood
Matariki at Owairaka Domain 2018 is made possible by a grant from Albert-Eden Local Board. This local initiative brings together artwork from local schools which is set to be installed and exhibited from 30 June to 8 July as a part of wider Matariki celebrations.
The exhibition provides an opportunity to practise environmental sustainability and creative utilisation from solid ‘waste’ materials and re-purposed objects.
“I created these local Matariki events to help sustain and add value to our indigenous culture within our community through creativity; inspiration, active participation and engagement,” says Ron Crummer who is at the helm of this project.
Supporting wellbeing contributes to more resilient communities
A grant from Albert-Eden Local Board is helping Anxiety New Zealand Trust provide suicide prevention and crisis training for staff and volunteers at its St Lukes Clinic.
Located in a very visible spot opposite the St Lukes mall, the Trust faces growing demand from local people, often in extreme distress. Special training is needed to help staff build resilience and capability in this highly stressful work.
Similarly last year, Asian Family Services (AFS) of the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand held a workshop for volunteers which was made possible through funding provided by Albert-Eden Local Board. 56 participants from Asian communities benefited from the training workshop provided by professionals.
“All participants had an opportunity to learn, share their passion and network together,” said Andrée Froude, Director Communications and Marketing, Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand.
Encouraging appreciation for our environment inspires its preservation
51 local people enjoyed an exciting experience at the Motu Manawa Marine Reserve and learnt about environmental issues at the same time.
A grant towards project costs by Albert-Eden Local Board made the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust – Experiencing Marine Reserve's event possible.
“A huge thank you to Albert-Eden Local Board for funding our Motu Manawa Kayak Day!” said event organiser Lorna Doogan. "As the north-western motorway runs through this marine reserve, it has the dubious honour of being the most visited marine reserve in New Zealand. This event provided an opportunity to showcase the mangrove environment as well as highlighting some of the issues we have facing the Waitematā Harbour.”
Check out the video from the day
Feedback from participants was nothing short of glowing. “I never knew this area was a marine reserve! This was a fun and educational experience and I am looking forward to more events like these,” said Steve Clark.
Find out more
A full list of grant recipients can be found in the Albert-Eden Local Board business meeting minutes.
If you have a project or an idea that might benefit from a grant, here's the full list of grants available.
