Foundation Backs Buderim Youth - 11 September, 2009

What does a pizza oven, high ropes course, a funky new museum and a battle of the bands event all have in common?

They are just some of the exciting projects put forward by a group of young people involved in the Buderim Foundation’s Youth in Philanthropy Project.

The Project required Buderim residents aged between 12 and 25 years to determine how a community grant of $40,000 could best serve the needs of young people in Buderim.

Buderim Foundation Director Dr Sarah Bird said the Youth in Philanthropy Project was the first of its kind on the Sunshine Coast.

“The Buderim Foundation applied for and received a grant of $20,000 from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) which was matched by a further $20,000 from eight generous local philanthropists,” Dr Bird said.

“This gave the Foundation a unique opportunity. We were able to give young people the responsibility for outcomes which affect their community and also provide them with funds to back their decisions.

“Their journey has exceeded all our expectations.

“Over a six week period, we have watched the group become empowered and inspired by the challenge. They are now more aware of philanthropy and the processes involved in fund raising, grant giving and governance.

“We are just so proud of the passion, commitment and enthusiasm they have demonstrated throughout the process.

“The ultimate result being some exciting youth initiatives decided on by youth themselves!”

Buderim resident and Maroochydore State High School Year Nine student Jon Cripps said participating in the Youth in Philanthropy Project had been an amazing learning opportunity and a lot of fun!

“I never really thought someone my age could contribute so much to where we live,” John said. “This process has shown me no matter how old you are or how much experience you have, everyone has something to offer their community and together we can achieve amazing things.

“We are really excited to be presenting our ideas to the Buderim community at the Foundation’s Good News Night. We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to determine how this community funding should be spent.”

The group will present their recommendations at the Buderim Foundation’s Good News Night to be held at the Buderim Memorial Hall this Friday, 18 September commencing 5.00pm.

The youth projects of benefit to Buderim will be further developed over the next three years.