Equipping for Life Limited, a well-recognized charity with its main operation in Deception Bay, was one of the awardees of the Good for Good Community Grants Program from Queensland Country Bank. This funding went to purchasing a secure storage trailer, vital for transporting and storing various sporting and outdoor equipment.
The $10,000 grant, which was given in 2023, was primarily intended to increase the accessibility of outdoor activities for underprivileged and vulnerable students enrolled in the Equipping for Life educational initiative at Arethusa College, also in Deception Bay.
The goal was to address the logistical obstacles associated with transporting and storing equipment, thus enabling a wider variety of physical activities to take place more regularly. Participation in these activities is essential for the well-being of young people, both physically and mentally, and serves as a crucial support system, particularly for those at risk of social exclusion or behavioral challenges.
Arethusa College: A Unique Educational Approach
Arethusa College provides alternative educational and vocational pathways for students from Years 7-12 who struggle in mainstream school environments. The college operates seven campuses throughout South East Queensland, each tailored to its local context.
Notably, the Deception Bay campus, spread over 75 acres, offers a serene, semi-rural setting that enhances student learning through outdoor activities, sports facilities, and various vocational training opportunities.
Beneficiaries of the Project
Equipping for Life Limited’s project supports a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, children and youth aged 6 to under 25, financially disadvantaged individuals, people at risk of homelessness, those with disabilities, pre/post-release offenders and their families, victims of crime, and both female and male groups across different age brackets. Providing accessible outdoor activities via the storage trailer will significantly enhance the engagement and well-being of these groups.
Arethusa College’s philosophy is anchored in Christian principles that emphasise respect, morality, and valuable life lessons. Although the college does not impart religious education, these principles are embedded in its culture and programs, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This approach is particularly beneficial for students who have experienced prolonged absences from school or social challenges, helping them to achieve a sense of belonging and accomplishment.
Queensland Country Bank’s commitment to reinvesting profits into local communities has led to the Good for Good Community Grants Program supporting not-for-profit entities across the state since 2005. Another round of grants will be distributed in 2024.
Published 3-Sept-2024
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