Members of the NRCF Women’s Giving Circle recently awarded over $50,000 in funding to three successful projects through its Empowering Women and Girls Grant Program. This year saw a record 19 applications, the highest number in the program’s history. The proposed projects were diverse, ranging from creative performances and housing solutions to alert systems for domestic violence survivors, hampers for new mothers, climate education for women, and training more women in marine search and rescue operations.
A committee of community members from across the Northern Rivers shortlisted three projects. The committee evaluated and ranked the applications based on several criteria. The finalists then faced the challenge of pitching their projects to an audience of over 120 Women’s Giving Circle members and their guests at the beautiful Brunswick Picture House.
Understanding that pitching to such a large audience could be daunting, each finalist was paired with a mentor who coached them on structuring and delivering an effective pitch. On the night, each finalist was given 10 minutes to present their project and its intended impact. After the presentations, members voted for their favorite project via a secret ballot.
The project that garnered the most support was “Empower Her,” pitched by Human Nature Adventure Therapy. This project, which will receive a $35,000 grant, will deliver 90 personalized 1:1 therapeutic sessions to young women aged 14-18 in the Northern Rivers who have experienced sexual or domestic violence. The sessions aim to address and heal trauma, build well-being literacy, foster healthy relationships, and improve life skills. By boosting self-esteem, confidence, and resilience, these sessions will empower participants to engage meaningfully in social activities, education, and training, while fostering healthy relationships—the building blocks of positive well-being and long-term life satisfaction.
The two remaining finalists, Haus of Armour and Women Up North, will each receive a grant of $10,000 (or the full amount requested, whichever is lower) to kickstart their projects. Haus of Armour, pitched by founder Kate Jackson, will use the grant to offer personalized styling sessions to help rebuild the self-esteem of women who have survived family violence. Women Up North will deliver a series of “Empowering Self-Defense” workshops that teach emotional, mental, and physical skills, enabling participants to feel safer and more confident in navigating challenging situations.
The NRCF Women’s Giving Circle is an innovative philanthropic model that connects women with the capacity to donate with women who are creating positive change in their communities. Members commit to contributing $1,000 annually (upfront or in installments) and pool their funds to invest in projects that improve the lives of women and girls in the Northern Rivers. Members also have the opportunity to participate in social and educational events throughout the year.
Find out more at our website: https://nrcf.org.au/womens-giving-circle.
You’ve seen the power of collective giving. If each of us invite 1 friend to join the Giving Circle, we can have so much more impact together. JOIN HERE
