Community collaboration has reached a post-Covid high with Ray White Whangarei and Tutukaka helping more than 45 local people/groups with more than $42,000 in funding.
In 2019 the Ray White Whangarei and Tutukaka teams set up the We Can Help With That fund to encourage increased access to opportunities for locals – with a vision to create a community of active people, resilient communities and sustainable environments through supporting projects that focus on people, participation and places.
We Can Help With That funding comes directly from the Ray White Whangarei and Tutukaka team members who set aside a percentage of funds from every property sale and lease.
The money is then distributed up to four times per year to the community through grants which can be applied for by eligible community organisations, schools, groups, charities, causes and individuals throughout the Whangarei District.
“While the decisions on allocating funds is always challenging, as there are simply so many worthy causes, it is an inspiring process to be part of,” Ray White Whangarei director John Monteith said.
“Whether it’s a small amount, or large amount… we love facilitating opportunities for positive change in our communities.”
Mr Monteith said when the project first launched the team weren’t sure of what kind of applications they would receive.
“We were blown away by the number and sheer diversity of the applications that did come in,” he said.
“One standout was from a local teacher who wanted to take her students on an artistic adventure and have them learn alongside local artists.
“Knowing that the tools and equipment are not always available through school resources, that the course costs may be prohibitive for some parents, and being tactile sensitive herself she and her students put together a stunning proposal to attend The Quarry Arts Centre’s Art Discovers Program – a visual education program to inspire and educate the next generation of artists.
“We were happy to see these students had a wonderful experience and opportunity to experience art, and the photos of the kids enjoying the program, along with the thank you letters, put smiles on our faces.”
Mr Monteith said they received hundreds of unique submissions including for the local Whangarei Toy Library who simply needed a modern light-weight sign to save the volunteers from lugging a heavy wooden sign outside each day.
Applications are now open for Round 9 of funding as part of the We Can Help With That initiative.
Ray White Whangarei co-director Vanessa McKenzie said it was a local fund for locals.
“We encourage everyone to check out the site to see if they’re eligible,” Ms McKenzie said.
“We’re all about supporting local individuals and those representing non-profit community groups, charities, cultural, welfare agencies, educational organisations and amateur sporting organisations throughout the Whangarei district.”
Applications will close on August 31, with successful recipients notified the following week. Check your eligibility or fill out an application here.