Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC) is advising all local community organisations that they can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to improve our region for young people.

The grants are part of ABC’s Heywire program to use the voices of young Australians to help shape their communities and is funded by Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR).

RDACC Director of Regional Projects, Funding & Research, Christine Jarvis, says this is a fantastic opportunity to champion positive change for youth on the Central Coast.

“These grants will give local community organisations the chance to implement ideas generated by young Australians who attended Heywire’s Youth Ideas Lab. It’s a program designed to support ideas for young people, created by young people,” says Ms Jarvis.

“Projects funded through these grants will positively impact the lives of young people here on the Central Coast.”

The Youth Ideas Lab developed five project themes and grants will be given for communities to adopt, adapt and act on the following:

• Discover Your Future– connecting with experts to share their career journeys and help young people explore future career options.
• Open Field Fest– creating a community-run festival to celebrate local music, art and people.
• Support Squad– training young leaders to give support, knowledge and companionship to their peers who may be struggling with a variety of challenges.
• The Story Link Project– building acceptance and diversity by sharing stories that encourage regional communities to practice empathy and inclusion.
• Contribute to the Change – helping young people improve their mental health knowledge and connect to local support services.

Applications close on 19 August. For more information visit https://www.abc.net.au/heywire/grants/