REVIEW - Hand Heart Pocket
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REVIEW
BOAR D OF BENEVOLENCE
Our refined
philanthropic
approach
Supporting programs and initiatives
that help to improve outcomes
for youth at risk.
FEATURE STORY
FEATURE STORY HELPING YOUNG
CREATING PATHWAYS
TO A REWARDING JOB
B 16 CARERS REALISE
THEIR DREAMS 18
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
02 WHO WE ARE
04 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
05 MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
06 OUR BOARD AND GOVERNANCE
08 OUR ACTIVITIES AND OUTCOMES
10 OUR GRASSROOTS GRANTS PROGRAM – FEATURE STORY
FREEMASONS FULFILLING
75th Annual Review
COMMUNITY NEEDS
WASHING AWAY
The Board of Benevolence
and of Aged Masons Widows
FEATURE STORY MENTAL HEALTH
20 22
14 PHILANTHROPIC RESPONSE GIVES HOPE
and Orphans' Fund trading as
TO MANY DURING THE PANDEMIC BRIGHT FUTURES EMPLOYMENT
Hand Heart Pocket the Charity
of Freemasons Queensland 16 FEATURE STORY
GAIN TR ACTION BARRIERS
ABN 54 216 065 828 CREATING PATHWAYS TO A
REWARDING JOB
Published November 2020
18 FEATURE STORY
Executive Office HELPING YOUNG CARERS
Mosaic, Level 1, 826 Ann Street REALISE THEIR DREAMS
Fortitude Valley Queensland 4006
20 FEATURE STORY
T (07) 3493 6000
BRIGHT FUTURES GAIN TRACTION
info@handheartpocket.org.au
www.handheartpocket.org.au 22 FEATURE STORY
WASHING AWAY MENTAL HEALTH
Auditor EMPLOYMENT BARRIERS
Crowe Audit Australia
Level 16, 120 Edward Street 24 FEATURE STORY
Brisbane Queensland 4000 A HOME AWAY FROM HOME
26 FEATURE STORY
Cover photo
BUSHFIRE RELIEF OFFERS HOPE
A TRACTION participant works with
FEATURE STORY FEATURE STORY
his mentor to restore his bike. 28 FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT
A HOME AWAY
FROM HOME 24 BUSHFIRE RELIEF
OFFERS HOPE 26
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OUR REFINED
Hand Heart Pocket recently embarked on a
commitment to help improve outcomes for youth
at risk for at least the next three years. This saw
us start to direct the majority of our Significant
PHILANTHROPIC and Flagship Grant funding towards programs and
initiatives that aim to help at-risk youth to overcome
the significant challenges they may face. Our Theory
of Change explains the problem we are trying to
APPROACH address for youth at risk, how we think we can help
and the outcomes we hope to achieve with our charity
and philanthropic partners.
HAND HEART POCKET THEORY OF CHANGE
THE PROBLEM WE ARE TRYING TO ADDRESS
Young people at risk through trauma, disadvantage, social isolation and discrimination, are more likely to have adverse outcomes over
WHO
the course of their lives. These adverse outcomes might include homelessness, not completing school, unemployment, addiction, poor
mental and physical health, domestic violence and interactions with the police and justice systems.
Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland is an independent
charity and philanthropic foundation that provides support to other charities,
social enterprises, families and individuals to help improve outcomes for IF WE:
the community. • Focus our resources and most of our grant funding for at • Build the capacity of other charities to help enhance
least the next three years to help improve outcomes for their impact management.
At a state-wide level, we partner with other charities and philanthropists youth at risk. • Support our charity partners to measure their impact and
and provide Significant and Flagship Grants that mainly focus on improving • Build the right partnerships with other charities and better understand the outcomes being created.
outcomes for youth at risk. Hand Heart Pocket also provides a smaller portion of philanthropists whose focus is also young people at risk. • Share what we learn.
its grant funding for programs and initiatives that support men’s mental and
physical health, women’s financial and physical security and our ageing population.
WE ARE At a grassroots level, we work with Freemason Lodges throughout Queensland
and in Papua New Guinea to identify and support numerous community initiatives
every year. We also help individuals in times of extreme need to get back on
their feet.
THROUGH:
The support of evidence-based programs and initiatives that help young people at risk to have hope for their own futures and to:
Hand Heart Pocket is the trading name and brand for the Board of Benevolence
and of Aged Masons Widows and Orphans’ Fund, which was founded by the
Freemasons of Queensland over 110 years ago, and has an extensive history of Find a stable Build a support Contribute to Seek help Gain an education Find stable paid
home network the community when needed and skills for the or volunteer
charity and benevolence. future work
THEN THIS WILL RESULT IN:
For youth at risk: • Increased community For other charities: • Improved impact
• Increased confidence. interactions. • Greater clarity in how impact measurement to help
• Increased hope for the • Re-engagement with is created, managed and improve practice.
future. education. measured.
• Increased social • Actively seeking work.
interactions.
IDENTITY PURPOSE VALUES
Building on the legacy of Through engagement with Our values bind us together AND EVENTUALLY WILL LEAD TO:
Freemasonry, we empower, members and communities, as an organisation and are
• Educational attainment (completion of Year 10, 11 or 12, TAFE, • A stable support network in place.
support and enable humanity we identify opportunities to reflected in everything we do. apprenticeship or university). • Stable housing.
in an ever-changing world. provide sustainable support They are: • Stable employment over time (full-time or part-time). • Reduced reliance on government services.
that delivers positive outcomes. • Regular volunteering and community contribution. • Improved health and wellbeing.
Compassion - Alleviate
suffering and misfortune.
Integrity - Moral and ethical.
Empowerment - Equip people IMPROVED OUTCOMES FOR YOUTH AT RISK IN QLD OVER TIME
directly or through others to
lead better lives.
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FROM THE CHAIRMAN MESSAGE MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
FROM THE CEO
FROM THE We have increased our support of the
charity work of Freemasons through our
held in partnership with CheckUP, covered
a range of men’s health topics such as
CHAIRMAN
" Great outcomes require great
teams to consistently perform to
the best of their ability, and this
organisation has been extremely
expanded grassroots grants program, our
men’s health awareness campaign, and
our support of the River 2 Reef Charity
Ride in Mackay. Together with our
Freemason members, we have provided
assistance to many Queenslanders who
have been affected by the devastating
nutrition, physical activity, early detection
of cancer, important CheckUPs for men,
diabetes and heart disease, mental health,
wellbeing and relationships.
RIVER 2 REEF CHARITY RIDE
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the
lucky to have had appropriately fires and drought. River 2 Reef Charity Ride went ahead in
skilled and committed staff September with Hand Heart Pocket
So much has been achieved, even in the maintaining its three-year commitment as
through its journey to becoming
past 12 months, and the charity work of naming rights sponsors. Seven hundred
one of Queensland’s leading Freemasons is becoming more prominent in riders took part in the COVID-19 friendly,
philanthropic foundations. more communities. modified event, raising $75,000 for three
local charities including the Suicide
"
Over the past year, we’ve established several new partnerships with charities and social enterprises OUR GR ASSROOTS SUPPORT Prevention Community Action Planning
who are empowering at-risk youth to have hope for their own futures, and who will ultimately help us This past year, our support of Lodge charity Group’s Men’s Campaign based at
to create a greater impact. This is my last message as the CEO of Hand work at a grassroots level grew to $590,000, ‘selectability’, RACQ CQ Rescue and the
Heart Pocket, and by the time this with 81 community charitable initiatives Mackay and District Sporting Wheelies.
publication is released, I would have already being identified by Lodges. You can read
embarked on the next phase of my career. more about how our Grassroots Grants None of these past seven years would
Hand Heart Pocket’s philanthropic support impacts; build the right relationships; have where it is today – as a large philanthropic program is making a difference from page have been possible without the support of
has continued to grow this past year at a a sustainable business model; honour our fund which is making a significant charitable When I look back, the past seven years have 10. These grants were in addition to several our passionate Freemason members, and of
time when our communities have needed it traditions and history and; maintain a and philanthropic impact. been both rewarding and inspiring. We have COVID-19 Emergency Community Grants course, my dedicated and committed team
the most. Last financial year, we provided contemporary approach. laid the groundwork for the charity of that helped community organisations to at Hand Heart Pocket. I sincerely thank you
$4.52 million in philanthropic support OUR STRONG Freemasons Queensland to become a large meet an increase in demand for their all and I look forward to seeing the impact
including grants, in-kind support and GR AND MASTER’S FIRE APPEAL philanthropic foundation while consistently services during the pandemic. this organisation will have for many years
FINANCIAL POSITION
interest-free loans. Almost $750,000 delivering on the board’s evolving strategy. to come.
It was encouraging to see Freemasons Our core investment corpus was valued at
of that support was given in COVID-19 across the state rally together with Hand Our evidence-informed Theory of Change is MEN’S HEALTH AWARENESS
$176.28 million as at the end of June, which now guiding our philanthropic activities and
Emergency Grants, to assist our existing Heart Pocket as part of the Grand Master’s was a slight increase on last year despite CAMPAIGN
charity partners and grassroots charities Fire Appeal, which resulted in over will help to create a significant impact for
the fluctuations in market valuations due at-risk youth. This past financial year alone, Our Men’s Health Awareness Campaign
identified by Freemason Lodges, to $202,000 being distributed to assist to the pandemic’s impact on global financial our Significant and Flagship Grants totalled delivered information sessions in 13
navigate through the pandemic. You fire-affected Queenslanders. More markets. This is also a significant increase $2.26 million and assisted ten programs or communities across Queensland before
can read more about our support during
the Coronavirus pandemic on page 14.
information about how this relief has from the $150 million it was valued at when initiatives that are improving outcomes, the pandemic caused a further three to be GARY MARK
offered hope can be found from page 26. the corpus was originally invested in cancelled. The free information sessions CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICE
Through our support of the charity work mainly for youth at risk.
December 2016.
CREATING IMPACT WITH A of Lodges, we are able to make a
REFINED APPROACH bigger difference to strengthen families For the 2019-20 financial year, we recorded
This time last year, we announced our and communities. an operating deficit of $2.89 million. This
refined philanthropic approach, which has deficit was largely due to the lower than
seen us strengthen our focus on improving OUR PEOPLE budgeted investment income received for
outcomes for youth at risk. Over the past This year has seen some board renewal, the year. Our revenue from operating
year, we’ve established several new with Paul Reeve, Jane Crombie and Kirby activities was $6.34 million, and net assets
partnerships with charities and social Leeke bringing additional skills and were $183.27 million as at 30 June 2020.
enterprises who are empowering at-risk expertise to the board. You can read more More information on our financial position
youth to have hope for their own futures, about the qualifications and experience can be found on page 28.
and who will ultimately help us to create a of our directors from page six.
Hand Heart Pocket is about to embark on
greater impact. You can read more about
Spencer Christensen and John Aronis a new phase of its journey, under the
our Theory of Change on page three, and
retired as directors when their terms leadership of a renewed board and a new
how these grants are helping to improve
concluded this year, and at the time of CEO. We are excited about the philanthropic
outcomes from page 16.
writing, Gary Mark was also about to impact that this organisation can help to
The board’s broader strategy continues to complete his contract as CEO of more achieve as it builds on the legacy of
also support initiatives that help to improve than seven years, to embark on the next Freemasonry to empower, support and
men’s mental and physical health, women’s phase of his career. The entire board is enable humanity in an ever-changing world.
financial and physical security, and assist very grateful for their dedication, expertise
our ageing population. Further refinements and hard work which contributed to
were made to the action pathways in our addressing the significant issues faced The Hand Heart Pocket team in
long-term strategy as part of our regular, by the organisation in 2013. Through a September 2020. 0. From back left:
annual review. These refinements will allow clearly defined board strategy, which was Clayton Rawle, Katrina Makai, Gary
us to continue striving for success in our well executed under Gary’s leadership, the ALASDAIR BEGLEY Mark, Karen Tilke,
e, Danielle
Chappell, Ruth Keshia, Robert
journey to create enduring and positive organisation has been able to position itself CHAIRMAN Qualtrough, and Sal Dunlop.
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OUR BOARD
The Board of Benevolence and of Aged Masons Widows and ROBERT QUALTROUGH JANE CROMBIE
Orphans’ Fund is the registered administrative body of Hand EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
& COMPANY SECRETARY BHMS, MBA, GAICD, FGIA
Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland. The
BCom (Accounting), CPA, MAICD
AND GOVERNANCE board oversees the organisation’s governance, prudential
responsibilities and strategy.
Robert is a Certified Practicing Accountant
Jane is an investment professional with
over 15 years’ experience in portfolio
with over 24 years’ experience in executive construction for superannuation, membership,
and senior finance roles across a number of and philanthropic organisations. She is
industries where he has gained extensive experienced in risk and compliance,
reporting and analysis, business investment governance, ESG investing,
management, governance and company entrepreneurship, and the social
secretarial experience. impact sector.
GARY MARK Jane is passionate about governing and
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER investing well to maximise philanthropic
MHCIMA, MAICD impact. She has a particular interest in board
Gary has a strong record of achievement in oversight of organisational culture. Her
senior positions within a range of industry governance experience over the past decade
sectors including not-for-profit, retirement includes roles at PwC, Australian Unity, AMA
living, aged care, facility management, health Qld, Anglican Schools Commission, ImpaQt
and hospitality. He has served on several Qld, and food rescue charity SecondBite.
not-for-profit boards. Gary’s business
qualifications and extensive experience have
KIRBY LEEKE
DIRECTOR
allowed him to develop strong leadership CA, CPA, BBus (Accounting)
capability, strategic and business planning,
change management and communication skills. Kirby has extensive experience as a
He has a strong customer service focus and Chartered Accountant and Auditor, has
extensive experience in key account and served on numerous boards and committees,
customer relationship management. and is an active member of the Scouts
Association of Australia. He is a fellow of
PAUL HOLLAND the Institute of Chartered Accountants, a
DIRECTOR Registered Company Auditor, a Justice of
MCI MEdSt DipT FIML MACE the Peace (Qualified) and a Member of the
Paul is the Grand Master of the United Grand Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Lodge of Queensland. He has significant Kirby previously served on the Board of
experience in both the interactive media Benevolence for 14 years and has been a
industry and the education and training Freemason for more than 30 years. He has
sectors. Paul has been a company director also served and continues to serve in very
and president of several organisations, senior roles within the Great Priory of
a c-level executive, business coach, Queensland and the Supreme Grand Royal
consultant and lecturer. He is also a Arch Chapter of Queensland.
Fellow of the Institute of Managers and
Leaders and a Member of the Australian
PAUL REEVE
DIRECTOR
College of Educators. BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Paul specialises in leadership, strategy, Paul has extensive global experience in
creativity and innovation, organisational values-led investment, asset management
change, sustainability, knowledge and investment banking.
management, business acumen and
He is a founding partner and director of a
entrepreneurship, executive and business
UK asset management business and holds
coaching, and IP commercialisation.
GREG SHORT ALASDAIR BEGLEY JASON BINGHAM Our board and executive officers board positions in a number of impactful
DIRECTOR CHAIRMAN DIRECTOR as of the end of August 2020 are organisations and companies around
JP(Qual) BSurv, Reg Surv (Cad), EMBA, GAICD DBA, MBA, BAHum, PMP, GAICD
pictured from left to right. SANDY BLACKBURN the world.
(Absent: Paul Reeve, Director). DIRECTOR
Greg brings a wealth of experience in Alasdair has a technical background in Jason is a commercial executive with over BSc, Grad Dip AdEd, MA AdEd Paul has a passion for helping young people
public service, corporate governance, surveying and planning, and is Managing 20 years’ experience spanning the public, Sandy brings more than 35 years’ local and fulfil their potential, and his experience and
commercial operations and has Director of a large surveying, planning, private and not-for-profi t sectors. He is international experience in the philanthropic, qualifications have seen him develop
strong roots in our rural and landscape architecture and environmental an experienced company director who is non-profit and financial services sectors, and solutions that link investment returns with
farming communities. management consulting group. active in supporting community-based a passion for building bridges between the supporting charitable causes.
His previous roles have included police He has formal qualifications in surveying, organisations. Jason brings a wealth of social and financial. She is the founder and
officer, detective and public prosecutor business and corporate governance and skills to the board including commerce, Managing Director of Social Outcomes, a
and he has been a company owner and over 15 years-experience working on and sustainability, community engagement, business that uses social and financial
director in the private sector for over 20 managing large infrastructure and corporate performance and governance. innovation to create and fund quality
years. Greg also understands the value development projects across Queensland. outcomes for its partners. Sandy also sits
of working your way to the top, making Alasdair's business interests are change on the Australian Advisory Board to the
him an astute business leader. Greg has management and strategy, and he has Social Impact Investment Global Steering
been a Freemason for 36 years. held governance roles in both community Group and the advisory board of QUT’s
and industry organisations. Australian Centre for Philanthropy and
Nonprofit Studies.
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OUR ACTIVITIES & OLDER PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS
OUTCOMES
SNAPSHOT OF HAND
in Queensland will increase their social networks by staying
HEART POCKET GR ANT
connected, as a $110,000 Significant Grant and a $110,000
FUNDING interest-free loan helps Hear and Say to accelerate the growth of its
new Adult Hearing program.
FY 2019 - 2020 VULNERABLE
LGBTIQ + YOUTH
in Brisbane will benefit from an
$80,000 capacity-building grant to
Open Doors Youth Service to engage a
SIGNIFICANT GR ASSROOTS COVID-19 BENEVOLENCE DISASTER specialist to develop a framework
GR ANTS GR ANTS EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE RELIEF which will help the charity to better
GR ANTS understand, measure and manage the
10 GRANTS 81 GRANTS 28 PEOPLE DROUGHT & FIRE impact it is making.
38 YOUTH 24 PEOPLE
$2.26M $590K 17 GRANTS $139K $358K
$748K
AT RISK WITH VISION LOSS
TOTAL CASH GR ANTS VALUE OF CASH GR ANTS IN-KIND SUPPORT in South East Queensland have across Queensland will soon 460+ PEOPLE
136 $4.095
(INCLUDING DISASTER RELIEF FUNDING)
14 INITIATIVES the opportunity to increase their
confidence and create hope for their
experience greater independence
when paired with a Guide Dog,
WILL BE RESCUED
futures by engaging in alternative thanks to the savings in vet bills when in trouble out on the water off the
action-based education, thanks to brought about through a new Fraser Coast thanks to a $400,000
a $100,000 Significant Grant to onsite vet clinic, made possible Significant Grant to Volunteer Marine
TRACTION. The grant will also help by a $230,000 Significant Grant Rescue Hervey Bay in early 2019 to help
the non-profit measure its outcomes given last financial year to build a new marine rescue vessel.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY: and better understand, manage and Guide Dogs Queensland.
measure the impact it is making.
YOUNG CARERS
IN QUEENSLAND
2 PEOPLE
LIVING WITH A DISABILITY
will have the support to complete school, build a
support network, increase their confidence and
will have increased independence and a stable
home after YellowBridge QLD, a disability 110 YOUNG PEOPLE
create hope for their futures thanks to a
Significant Grant of $380,000 to Little Dreamers
support services and housing provider in
WITH PHYSICAL OR MENTAL
HEALTH INJURIES
Toowoomba, opened a purpose-built
for the Young Carer Project pilot in Townsville, accommodation unit, thanks to a $450,000
Bundaberg and Brisbane. Significant Grant given in 2018.
in greater Brisbane and Ipswich will be supported to YOUNG FAMILIES IN CRISIS
transition into paid or volunteer work once they are job ready Vulnerable young families in crisis on Brisbane’s southside
from a $479,244 Significant Grant to Happy Paws Happy
11 ELDERLY PEOPLE
will continue to have access to vital support services with
1,228
will maintain close ties with Hearts. The grant will help establish an Employment Micah Projects receiving a $400,000 Significant Grant and
their loved ones and Pathways program to build on an existing program, that $400,000 interest-free loan to help purchase the leased
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA support networks when
Pinaroo Aged Care in
brings socially isolated people together to care for
and train rescue animals.
building where it runs the Wellspring Hawthorne Hub.
Roma completes facility
PEOPLE LIVING
refurbishments, funded
through a $250,000
WITH CANCER
30 PEOPLE
Significant Grant given last
financial year, so more
people with the condition can build support networks and enhance
PEOPLE WITH
can be cared for locally. their quality of life when additional wellness
facilities and services become available
from a $570,000 Flagship Grant and WITH A LIVED EXPERIENCE
A DISABILITY OF MENTAL ILLNESS
$130,000 interest-free loan given to
100
Bloomhill Cancer Care Sunshine Coast in
will maintain their independence
2018, so it can expand its facilities. in the Toowoomba region will have the opportunity to
thanks to a $102,500 Significant
Grant to Murilla Community Centre in South West Queensland will gain increased independence gain vital skills and an employment pathway since
in Miles, so it could purchase and dignity through access to purpose-built respite and Vanguard Laundry Services received a $277,500
ELDERLY AND a new bus and vehicle to provide short-term accommodation. Care Goondiwindi received a
$281,000 Significant Grant to help fund the construction of
Significant Grant to fund the upfront capital investment
needed to grow its social enterprise.
DISABLED PEOPLE
fit-for-purpose transportation and
support services. stage one of a $1.5 million facility.
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adjacent to Townsville Hospital can contain WESTERN QUEENSLAND region was taken to new heights with the
OUR GR ASSROOTS GR ANTS PROGR AM 25 families and 100 people each night. REGION opening of the new $6 million aeromedical
base and patient transport facility in
• Fuller Freemasons Lodge has extended a • Emerald PCYC has invested a $9,669
Freemasons making a difference in the community helping hand to war widows and their Community Grant in new equipment and
Bundaberg. Five local Freemason Lodges,
and local Chapters within the Order of the
families through Lower Burdekin Legacy. the fit out of a new space within the club to
Our Grassroots Grants program maximises increased at a grassroots level with through Hand Heart Pocket’s Benevolence Eastern Star, Rose Croix, Royal Arch and
A $300 donation was provided to support run an enhanced program for at-risk
the charitable work of Freemason Lodges Freemason Lodges and Hand Heart Assistance program, as well as significant Grand Priory instigated a $50,000 donation
their essential services. 45 families are young people on community service orders.
in their community. Pocket contributing over $590,000 to disaster relief support for Queenslanders supported by the local branch. towards the fit-out of a specialised meeting
Alexandra Freemasons Lodge recommended
support 81 grassroots initiatives. Additional affected by the bushfires and drought. room, for the co-ordination of services,
the initiative.
Throughout the year, Lodges identify and support was provided to local charities Also, 16 volunteer Hand Heart Pocket professional development and community
help to fulfil local community needs, which identified by Freemason Lodges through Champions helped to promote Hand • At-risk youth in Charleville will get the engagement. Annually, over 3,500 patients in
is augmented through Hand Heart COVID-19 Emergency Community Grants Heart Pocket programs and initiatives help they need to be job-ready through the region access the services of the RFDS or
Pocket’s Dollar-for-Dollar, Dollar-for-Dollar to help meet emerging community need within Freemason Lodges and throughout the Charleville Neighbourhood Centre, Lifeflight, with this number is expected to
Plus and Grassroots Community Grants. as a result of the pandemic (see page 14). their communities. which received a $10,000 hand up for rise, with the planned expansion of
This past financial year, support was A hand up was also provided to 28 people much-needed resources for its job readiness Bundaberg Hospital.
program. Charleville Freemasons Lodge
• Bundaberg’s RACQ LifeFlight Rescue
initiated the Community Grant.
helicopter has continued to reach those
• A new portable glidescope go monitor in immediate need, thanks to Boonara
kit will help nurses at Augathella Hospital Freemasons Lodge donating $13,426 towards
HERE’S HOW FREEMASONS ARE IMPROVING to examine patients’ airways and perform operating and fuels costs. Last year hundreds
vital life-saving procedures. The device of critical missions were completed
OUTCOMES IN THEIR COMMUNITY: was funded by a $4,000 Community Grant throughout the Wide Bay region.
CENTR AL QUEENSLAND
instigated by Augathella Freemasons Lodge.
gifted to the ward by Granite Freemasons Freemasons Lodge nominated the REGION • Bundaberg Meals on Wheels which is
Lodge. The $23,598 donation will help organisation for the grant. • The RACQ Capricorn Rescue Helicopter • New equipment including a wood cutting accessed by some 330 people in the Wide
to improve patients’ quality of life. The Service was able to stay in the air, with band saw and second-hand metal folding Bay community was gifted $7,707 worth of
• Volunteer Marine Rescue Bowen which
hospital caters for 20,000 people in $3,000 being gifted towards fuel costs. machine and guillotine have been gifted to commercial catering equipment and a suction
services a 7,000 sq. km area, received a
the region. Yeppoon and Douglas Lodges initiated the Longreach Men’s Shed to accommodate polisher to keep its facilities clean. Tyrian
$15,000 funding injection towards efforts
the donation to the service which is on an increase in membership. Comet Freemasons Lodge instigated the donation.
• A trained assistance dog has helped to obtain a new rescue vessel. Kennedy
call 24/7 and covers a 350,000 sq.km Freemasons Lodge nominated the group for
to improve the wellbeing of a returned Freemasons Lodge joined the groundswell • Plans to open a new 12-bed homeless
area in Central Queensland. a $5,500 Community Grant.
soldier in Cairns. The District Board of of support for the initiative. shelter in Maryborough received a funding
Carpentaria generously provided $3,000 • The Suicide Prevention Community Action boost of $3,160 to help with renovations to an
• Relatives and friends of the terminally ill
to Canine Helpers to cover training costs. Planning Group’s Men’s Campaign based at existing building near the local hospital. The
at Townsville Hospital have been able to
‘selectability' received a $4,000 boost from initiative was spearheaded by Sheltered by
• People experiencing homelessness take time out after St Andrew of Townsville
Calen Hamilton Freemasons Lodge, with a Grace and PresCare after it was revealed that
or at-risk of being homeless in Cairns Freemasons Lodge donated $1,584 for
surprise announcement at the Mackay some 89 homeless people in Maryborough
will continue to have access to vital two TVs for the two waiting room lounge
information and assistance to find areas within the palliative care unit. A total District Freemasons’ inaugural Gala Dinner are turned away from shelters each day. The
appropriate housing, through Anglicare of 700,000 people fall within the hospital’s in September. wife of the Grand Master, Waveny Holland
North Queensland. Gregory Allan catchment area. made the donation after another successful
• The production of resources and safeTALK
Freemasons Lodge donated $4,000 quarterly fundraiser.
• New fridges and dryers have helped trainer training will help to spread awareness
to their Homelessness Hub. about suicide prevention across the Mackay • New shade sails will complete the student-
people receiving treatment for blood
cancer to feel at home at the Leukaemia region. Walkerston Freemasons Lodge run coffee shop at Hervey Bay Special
Foundation’s Townsville Freemasons contributed $10,000 to Grapevine Group School. Hervey Bay Daylight Freemasons
CARPENTARIA REGION Village. The home-away-from-home for the initiative. In 2019 the organisation Lodge brought the initiative to Hand Heart
• Vital equipment to assist in the received a $12,000 donation from Calen trained over 5,000 locals. Pocket’s attention resulting in a $3,470
transportation of patients in the Far North Hamilton Freemasons Lodge in Mackay. • The vital transportation of renal patients Community Grant.
was gifted to the Royal Flying Doctor Around 125 families stay at this for treatment and dialysis at Mackay Hospital WIDE BAY REGION • Stage one of a new sensory room at
Service in Cairns. Murray Freemasons accommodation facility each year. has been streamlined as the Kidney Support • Equipping students with life-skills will be Maryborough Special School has been
Lodge donated $10,400 for two vacuum Network makes use of a new computer to
• The boating community was top of mind taken to the next level at Hervey Bay Special green-lighted with a $10,000 Community
mats to help stabilise patients suspected manage its volunteers and clients. Sarina
when Fuller Freemasons Lodge handed School, as Mundubbera-Burnett and Hervey Grant. The school, which has 80 students
of a spinal injury. Additionally, new pilot Freemasons Lodge provided the $1,200
over $2,000 to Burdekin Volunteer Marine Bay Daylight Freemason Lodges helped to from prep to year 12, was put forward for
headsets and sound-reducing headsets donation to the group.
Rescue to help cover its fuel costs. The bring the long-awaited Trade Training Centre the grant by Mundubbera-Burnett
for the crew onboard were purchased.
service, which is responsible for keeping to fruition. With the support of the local Freemasons Lodge.
• The Mareeba Men’s Shed has been people safe on the water, has been Masonic family, a $50,000 donation has • Visitors at Gayndah Hospital will be able
made more accessible, with a section of operational since 1971. helped to fund the construction of the new to stay close to their loved one thanks to
the workshop being remodelled. Granite outdoor learning space which will form part of
NORTH QUEENSLAND • Maintaining a homely environment for the donation of a sofa bed, following a
Freemasons Lodge pitched in $15,042 the centre. A new deck with ramped access,
REGION families staying at North Queensland’s $3,399 Community Grant. Aged care
towards the addition of a new work area,
Ronald McDonald House was made panel roofing and planter boxes will help to residents at Gunther Village will be able to
plus new bathroom facilities including a • 10 schools in North Queensland will have
possible following a $5,000 donation create a productive environment. Over 100 communicate with family and friends after
disability toilet and shower. a dedicated space to promote kindness,
from the District Grand Lodge of North students attend the special school. the home was gifted eight new iPads worth
with the Joyful Foundation securing a
• Rehab patients at Mareeba Hospital Queensland. The funds will help to cover $6,211. Both initiatives were instigated by
$10,000 Community Grant for 10 ‘buddy • The life-saving work of the Royal Flying
were assisted in their recovery with a maintenance and repairs for one unit for 12 Gayndah Freemasons Lodge.
benches’. The initiative has been a Doctor Service (Queensland Section) and
blanket warmer and bladder scanner months. The accommodation facility
successful deterrent to bullying. Millican RACQ LifeFlight Rescue in the Wide Bay
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was donated to Peaceful Humans which • The outdoor play area at the local Hear • • • Victims of domestic violence have had the
is access by 180 people annually. and Say Centre in Nambour now has a support to start life anew, with Friends with
•
permanent roof covering with Rosslyn Dignity receiving $1,000 to help fitout homes
• People recovering from drug and alcohol
Freemasons Lodge instigating a $42,000 for this vulnerable group. The gift from
addiction in Toowoomba received a hand to
donation. This outdoor space provides a • Kianawah Freemasons Lodge helped to
get back on their feet with Darling Downs
unique environment in which children who purchase kitchen utensils and equipment.
Freemasons Lodge donating $1,198 to
Sunrise Way Rehabilitation Centre for are hearing impaired can learn to hear, listen
• The Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation
two iPad minis. and speak. Some 1,600 children will benefit
was able to service and maintain vital lab
from this initiative.
• Five Rural Fire Brigades in the Laidley and equipment using a $10,000 donation from
Lockyer Valley regions were able to upgrade • Much-needed supplies for Blackall Range City of Brisbane Consistory. 45 researchers
some of their equipment after sharing a Care Group’s day respite centre has helped and clinicians work at the research facility.
NORTH BRISBANE REGION
CENTR AL WEST REGION $10,000 donation provided by Argyle to enrich the lives of the aged on the
• Free mobile laundry services and shower BRISBANE SOUTH REGION • A practical shed and concrete slab
• A specialised recliner was gifted to the local Freemasons Lodge. Mulgowie, Blenheim, Sunshine Coast hinterland. A $700 hand up
facilities will be more accessible for people provided the Redlands Centre for Women
health service in Millmerran to enhance Hatton Vale, Grandchester and Woodlea was provided by Maleny Freemasons Lodge • People with a disability on Brisbane’s
living on the streets of Brisbane. Enoggera- Inc. with a secure place to store equipment
patients’ hospital stay. Millmerran Rural Fire Brigades were able to purchase for the 30 elderly people that access the Bayside continue to be empowered to
Thistle Freemasons Lodge was behind used as part of their social and support
Freemasons Lodge donated $3,672 for the upgraded equipment such as blowers, Centre each day. lead more independent lives through
the donation of a $4,000 vehicle-mounted activities. Redlands Freemasons Lodge
Regency Floatation Chair with their GPSes, generators and other items that meaningful employment and access to
• Buderim Men’s Shed was supported in washing machine to Orange Sky Australia initiated the $4,000 donation.
community in mind. The town’s population is were not provided by the Queensland supported accommodation. Disability
their efforts to enhance men’s mental and for their new van. The organisation
just over 1,500 people. Fire and Emergency Service. services provider MyHorizon, received
physical health in more ways than one, with now operates close to 30 vans around $4,000 from Redlands Freemasons Lodge,
• Victims of the Stanthorpe bushfires who lost • 30 dementia residents and their families Landsborough Lodge donating $2,580 for the country. for a commercial microwave oven for its
their homes were given a hand up to get back at Goondiwindi’s Kaloma Home for the Aged a defibrillator and numerous wood vices.
• Guide Dogs Queensland’s new on-site social enterprise cafe and wardrobes for
on their feet. Four families shared in a have been able to better utilise the outdoor Around 40 men access the workshop
vet clinic was gifted $5,274 worth of medical its accommodation facility.
$23,320 donation from Stanthorpe space adjacent to their wing thanks to $7,104 each day.
Freemasons Lodge, with the support of worth of shade sails donated by McIntyre equipment by Redcliffe First Settlement • A new oven has made is easier to prepare
Lodges from the Southern Downs, Darling • School supplies, uniforms and other Lodge, following their annual Dining in the
Freemasons Lodge. meals at Sheltered by Grace, a supported
Downs, and Goondiwindi regions. necessitous items were available to students Dark event. The new clinic is expected to accommodation facility for people
• The humble laminator has proven to in need at Maleny State High School, cut expense by half for the non-profit.
• At-risk youth were made to feel at home at experiencing homelessness in Logan. The
be vital to the Rural Fire Brigade. The through Your Dream Inc. Maleny Lodge
the Haven, a supported accommodation • Early intervention programs for children Grand Master’s wife, Waveny Holland,
Stanthorpe Fire Brigade Group which initiated the $500 donation.
initiative of Yellowbridge QLD, with three new with autism will be bolstered with a $6,000 donated $2,000 towards the new
consists of 12 satellite brigades and one
beds donated by the Toowoomba & District • At-risk youth at Maleny State High School donation to AEIOU Foundation from the appliance as well as a range of essential GOLD COAST REGION
central brigade was gifted 13 laminators
Masonic Council. who need crisis care, mentoring, family Queensland Masonic Touring Club. The supplies including toiletries, socks and • Outback communities going through
and pouches to laminate maps and
support or the essentials to get through their organisation has purchased a number of underwear, following the success of her tough times due to the drought, received
• Victims of domestic violence at a shelter standing orders, which are required in
schooling with get extra help through Your iPads for use across their nine centres quarterly fundraiser. assistance with the basic essentials, with
run by the Women’s Crisis Support Service the trucks and out in the field. Stanthorpe
and Dunellan Freemasons Lodges donated Dream Inc. Maleny Freemasons Lodge throughout the state. Tamborine Freemasons Lodge providing
in Ipswich, received a hand up with the • Improving men’s mental health was the aim
$1,480.57 for this essential equipment. nominated the group for a $5,000 $3,000 towards the Queensland Country
essentials to re-establish their lives. • People doing it tough on Brisbane’s behind a $4,000 donation to QIMR
Community Grant to support their work. Women’s Association’s Public Rural
The $5,000 donation was provided by • Akooramak Home for the Aged has northside have been able to live more Berghofer from Redlands Freemasons
• Upgrades to arena fencing at the Gympie Lodge. Mental health is one of three key Crisis Fund.
Queensland Freemasons Lodge. In replaced its bedpan washer and sanitizer independently with the help of Redcliffe
2019, 96 women and 103 children after receiving a $10,000 Community Grant and District Riding for the Disabled First Settlement Freemasons Lodge. A focus areas at the world-renowned medical
attended the service. to cover the funding gap. The grant was Association Inc. will enable sixty people with $1,400 donation to Encircle helped pay for research institute.
initiated by Cunningham Freemasons Lodge. disabilities to continue to partake in the essentials such as prescriptions, go cards,
• At-risk youth in the Miles District will get on • Queensland’s only children hospice has
organisation’s therapeutic horse riding fuel vouchers as well as school uniforms
the path to paid or voluntary work through • A fresh coat of paint has revitalised Arden been able to purchase and fit-out a new
programs. The Gympie and District Masonic and shoes. The organisation provides a
the Murilla Community Centre. A $10,000 House, an overnight respite accommodation
Fundraising Committee provided $28,033 to
wheelchair accessible vehicle with Mt ALIGNMENT WITH
range of support services to some 41,440 Pleasant Freemasons Lodge donating
Community Grant helped to establish the facility run by Granite Belt Support Services.
replace the wooden arena fence with a people each year.
OUR STRATEGY
youth program, by revitalising their disused Stanthorpe Freemasons Lodge nominated $42,975 to Hummingbird House.
fabricated steel fence.
den, preparing the necessary resources and the organisation for a $10,000 Community • Additional specialised equipment will help • Essential equipment needed for the Youth at
sourcing a youth worker. Murilla Freemasons Grant to help bring the project to fruition. • Media equipment has enabled the with the comfortable transfer of clients with training of assistance dogs for the disabled risk
Lodge nominated the initiative. Nambour Community Centre to shine a light high-care needs from one setting to another,
• The homeless and families in distress have and people suffering from mental illness,
on youth, multicultural and homelessness thanks to the generosity of Redcliffe First
• At-risk youth in the Balonne region will continued to receive food relief through was made possible with a $500 donation Men’s
issues through the development of a series Settlement Freemasons Lodge. Their $1,400
have hope for their futures, as a Youth Lighthouse Care after a $10,000 Community from Lowood Freemasons Lodge to mental and
of podcasts. Rosslyn Lodge provided the donation to Horizons Respite and Recreation
Council is established to engage young Grant was provided towards the purchase of Assistance Dogs Australia. physical health
seven new freezers at their Loganholme $1,000 hand up to the group that supports Association meant that another Jasmine
people through the arts, including a choir • A variety of fun and engaging away-from-
branch. Warwick Freemason Lodges took over 7,000 people in the region. hoist and pivot frame with sling could be
and performances at community events. home programs will be more accessible to Women’s
the lead to nominate the group. • Prompted by the extended bushfire purchased. The organisation provides day
The initiative of Care Balonne Association children with disabilities in Brisbane, thanks financial and
season, Maleny Freemasons Lodge donated respite for 62 young people with a
Inc will be supported with wrap around to Dunellan Freemasons Lodge having physical security
$2,000 to the Maleny and District Rural disabilities on the Redcliffe Peninsula.
services. The organisation was put forward provided a $5,000 donation to BestLife
for the $8,500 Community Grant by Fire Brigade for ancillary equipment and • A helping hand has meant teenagers Foundation. Since 2017, the Lodge has Ageing
Balonne Freemasons Lodge. ongoing training. suffering from Cystic Fibrosis have had a donated $10,200 to the local initiative which population
• The Maroochydore Men’s Shed came more pleasant experience transitioning into is accessed by a growing number of families.
• A community engagement group in
another step closer to completion with the adult hospital stream. Celtic of Ithaca
Toowoomba will continue to enhance the • Queensland servicemen and women Funding
$4,889 in gap funding being provided Freemasons Lodge donated $820 to the
wellbeing of marginalised locals, with the facing hardship were given crisis financial and financial
toward their lighting costs. The Community Mater Young Adult Health Centre to help
Toowoomba & District Masonic Council support, following a $1,220 gift from Camp assistance
Grant was initiated by Maroochydore pay for medication, hospital parking and
assisting with rent, utilities and fuel costs Hill Freemasons Lodge to Wounded Heroes
Freemasons Lodge. snacks which these patients would
to help keep the centre open. $10,180 Association Inc.
SUNSHINE COAST REGION otherwise struggle to afford.
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COVID-19 EMERGENCY GRANTS TO CHARITY PARTNERS
PHILANTHROPIC RESPONSE
GIVES HOPE TO MANY
DURING THE PANDEMIC
1,228 people living with cancer
could continue to build support
networks and improve their
quality of life when Bloomhill
Cancer Care Sunshine Coast
received a $200,000 COVID-19
People affected by cancer in Far North
Queensland continued to receive
telehealth services free of
charge during the pandemic thanks
to a $106,000 grant to Cairns
COUCH Cancer Wellness Centre.
Families in the Western Downs
region facing financial hardship as a
result of the pandemic could buy
the essentials and support the
local economy, as Murilla
Community Centre’s emergency
Emergency Grant to continue relief program attracted a
its operations. Flexibility in the $36,500 COVID-19
repayment of their interest-free Emergency Grant.
2020 has been a year, unlike any These funds helped to meet immediate “The reprieve in repayments on our loan was also given. 100s of Young Queenslanders
other. As tough measures were needs and enable them to achieve their $130,000 interest free-loan which had with high care needs were
outcomes over the long-term. been provided by Hand Heart Pocket in empowered to navigate their
introduced to slow the spread of 2019, has helped as well, so we sincerely way through the COVID-19 People with a lived experience of
COVID-19 in a bid to save lives, Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer thank Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of pandemic and stay socially mental illness in the Toowoomba
Gary Mark said that as a grant-making Freemasons Queensland for their support Victims of domestic violence seeking connected, through Youngcare’s region could continue to gain
the social and economic toll
organisation, it was critical that they during these uncertain times.” legal advice will have a greater new virtual support network. The vital skills and find paid
was devastating. Philanthropic responded in a timely manner. awareness of their rights, as an initiative was funded by a work thanks to a $100,000
foundations including Hand Heart STRENGTHENING $80,000 COVID-19 Emergency $20,000 COVID-19 Emergency COVID-19 Emergency Grant
“The pandemic brought on immense Grant enabled Women’s Legal
Pocket the Charity of Freemasons LOCAL CAUSES Grant to help the organisation to to Vanguard Laundry Services
hardship on a scale not seen before, with Service Queensland to cover its
Queensland were quick to ramp adapt its service model to better at a time when their
many charities and social enterprises At a local level, Hand Heart Pocket also funding shortfall to continue meet the needs of its residents, grant commercial laundry income
up efforts to provide additional either experiencing a significant loss in helped Lodges to increase philanthropic operating during the pandemic. recipients and their families. was significantly reduced.
assistance to charities and income, an increase in demand for their support in their area through an expanded
services, or they had to quickly adapt their Grassroots Community Grants Program.
communities facing hardship service model,” Mr Mark said.
during these uncertain times. “We provided a significantly higher
PARTNERING WITH number of Community Grants this
LONG ROAD AHEAD year, and also broadened the criteria
PURPOSE
and timeframe so Lodges could
COVID-19 EMERGENCY COMMUNITY GRANTS
The social and economic pain brought
Significant and Flagship charity partners nominate local charities who may
on by the COVID-19 pandemic has been CARPENTARIA year. The event will provide a safe CENTR AL WEST • COVID-19 safety modifications
were assisted with unrestricted COVID-19 have an immediate need as a result
felt far and wide, and the effects are • Essential aeromedical and
setting for important mental to Highfields Pioneer Village
Emergency Grants, where the greatest of COVID-19,” Mr Mark said. • A program to reengage at-risk
likely to continue for some time. Many health and wellbeing discussions will help volunteers and visitors
need was identified. They were also clinical equipment were restocked youth at the Granite Belt
Queenslanders were laid off or had to be had. A $8,942 COVID-19 who are mainly elderly, disabled
provided with some flexibility in their “A total of 25 Community Grants were at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Neighbourhood Centre was able
their hours slashed, and lifestyles Emergency Community Grant will and from a disadvantaged
acquittal and reporting timeframes, and awarded of which 10 were COVID-19 (Queensland Section) in Cairns, to meet the increased demand for
go towards the event, after the
were restricted. to help the local base to continue its services during the background to continue to
some were given in-kind support. Emergency Grants. Each received up organisation was put forward by
providing aeromedical and Coronavirus restrictions, thanks to engage in education, recreation
In late March, Hand Heart Pocket moved to $10,000 to help make a difference primary health care services to
Comet Freemasons Lodge.
Bloomhill Cancer Care on the Sunshine a $9,353 COVID-19 Emergency and social connection. Crows
quickly to reassure the public that they in their area. rural and remote patients, after
Coast was one such recipient. Chair Community Grants initiated by Nest Cooyar Freemasons Lodge
were committed to providing the full a decline in community donations Stanthorpe Freemasons Lodge. nominated the organisation
Michelle McGrath said the support from “As we look to 2021, the year ahead is as a result of the pandemic. WIDE BAY
budgeted amount of $4.25 million in The service was already stretched for the $10,000 COVID-19
Hand Heart Pocket enabled them to likely to be difficult. Therefore, Hand The COVID-19 Emergency • More personal protective
philanthropic funding for the 2019-20 due to the impacts of the drought Emergency Community Grant.
continue helping 1,228 people living with Heart Pocket committed to providing Community Grant of almost equipment was purchased for the
financial year. and bushfires.
cancer in the region to live well. further support this financial year to assist $10,000 was instigated by pilots and medical staff at the
its charity partners in navigating through Murray Freemasons Lodge. Royal Flying Doctor Service • Elderly residents, particularly
Almost $750,000 in emergency support BRISBANE SOUTH
“The $200,000 Emergency Grant helped the pandemic.” (Queensland Section) in those with dementia at Kaloma
and Grassroots Community Grants were Home for the Aged in
to fund our operations, which would Bundaberg following the increase • An emergency relief program
awarded during the pandemic to June in patients transfers with, or Goondiwindi were able to
typically have been covered by our WESTERN for veterans doing it tough has
2020, to help support some existing and suspected of having, COVID-19. A connect with their loved ones
fundraising events and social enterprise received a $10,000 boost to help
former charity partners and grassroots
Op Shop business, which were impacted
QUEENSLAND Disinfectant Fog Machine was during the pandemic, with new
with accommodation, food for
charities identified by Freemason Lodges. • The mental health and wellbeing also purchased to provide a more three iPads and accessories
by the restrictions,” Ms McGrath said. their families and mental health
of isolated at-risk children and thorough clean of their plane. donated to the facility, following
a $6,906 COVID-19 Emergency treatment. Wounded Heroes was
their families in the Barcaldine Corinthian Royal Arch Chapter
nominated the organisation for Community Grant initiated by put forward for the COVID-19
region was enhanced through
the $9,220 COVID-19 Emergency McIntyre Freemasons Lodge. Emergency Community Grant
Outback Futures’ Project stay
“ The pandemic brought on immense hardship on a scale not seen before,
with many charities and social enterprises either experiencing a significant
with them during the pandemic.
The therapy and clinical support
provider put the $9,900
Community Grant.
• The Wide Bay community had
access to additional suicide
• Palliative care patients at
Ipswich Hospice Care continued
to be looked after in a home-like
by Camp Hill Lodge.
• A surge in demand for homeless
support services as a direct result
loss in income, an increase in demand for their services, or they had to COVID-19 Emergency Community
Grant towards group therapy
prevention workshops through setting after Caledonian of the pandemic saw Redlands
Lifeline Fraser District following Freemasons Lodge nominated Community Centre receive a
quickly adapt their service model.” services. Comet Freemasons an increase in service demand as the organisation for a $10,000 $10,000 COVID-19 Emergency
Lodge instigated the grant. a result of the pandemic. A COVID-19 Emergency Community Community Grant. Nominated
$10,000 COVID-19 Emergency
GARY MARK, HAND HEART POCKET CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER. • The mental health and wellbeing
Community Grant ensured the
Grant, to help with the purchase by Redlands Freemasons Lodge,
of residents in Barcaldine will be of vital equipment and additional administration support
delivery of more SafeTALK and
enhanced through an Outback SuicideTALK workshops. Fraser refurbishments. A drop in was funded to help manage
Futures ‘Amazing Race’ Coast United Lodge nominated community donations resulted their caseload.
community event to be held next the organisation for the grant. in the need for this funding.
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The funding boost will allow the unique structured employment pathway,”
CREATING PATHWAYS TO A
REWARDING JOB
animal therapy charity to establish an Ms Black said.
Employment Pathways program at
“The grant from Hand Heart Pocket
Wacol to service the Greater Brisbane
is helping us establish the new
and Ipswich communities.
Employment Pathways program with
Happy Paws Happy Hearts CEO a sustainable business model so that
and co-founder Zoe Black said the as an organisation, we can achieve
new program would extend the deeper impact over the long-term.”
organisation’s existing work, allowing
Imagine being so overwhelmed with anxiety Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive
the organisation to achieve even better
Officer Gary Mark said the grant
that you were too scared to go to school - so outcomes for young people. reflected the organisation’s
afraid of social interaction that you avoided “We currently work with people who philanthropic focus to help improve
IN DECEMBER 2018,
other people at all costs. That’s exactly what have become socially isolated due to outcomes for youth at risk. UNEMPLOYMENT FOR
life was like for 20-year-old Bryce until he physical or mental health issues. We
found peace, and his life’s calling, through a re-engage them socially through our
“The funding would give Happy Paws
Happy Hearts a significant boost to
YOUNG PEOPLE AGED
unique animal therapy program. Bryce, who
innovative animal therapy model that
teaches people how to care for and
continue helping young people realise 15-24 WAS 11.2%,
their full potential,” Gary said.
has severe autism, is a graduate of Happy train animals in rescue shelters and TWICE THAT OF
Paws Happy Hearts, which is proudly wildlife sanctuaries,” Zoe said. “Hand Heart Pocket is facilitating
supported by Hand Heart Pocket the Charity
better outcomes to meet the needs AUSTRALIA’S OVERALL
“The program helps break down of contemporary families and the
of Freemasons Queensland. barriers and gives participants new community by building partnerships UNEMPLOYMENT RATE.
skills, support, and the confidence
FINDING HIS VOICE to create their own futures.”
with charities and other philanthropists THE WORST HOTSPOT
who are aligned with our focus on youth
Bryce’s mum, Josela tears up when she remembers Although the program has been a at risk. FOR YOUTH
what life was like for her son before he found the
animal therapy program that supports young people
catalyst for change for many, the “We are excited to be working with UNEMPLOYMENT IN
organisation didn’t have the resources Happy Paws Happy Hearts. The charity
with physical or mental health injuries to come out of to continue to transition young is dedicated to providing sustainable AUSTRALIA IS REGIONAL
their shell and transition into paid or voluntary work. participants, like Bryce, who had
become job-ready into suitable paid
outcomes for at-risk youth and giving QLD AT 25.7%.
“It used to really upset me because I would worry them the opportunity to make proactive
about Bryce’s mental health and I wasn’t sure how or volunteer employment. decisions about their future. SOURCE: (BROTHERHOOD OF
he would ever be able to function in this world,”
“Many of our young participants grow “Bryce is a wonderful example of ST LAURENCE, 2019)
Josela said.
significantly in their time at Happy Paws how the program can really make a
“There were many times when I feared for how his Happy Hearts, and it’s fantastic that difference for a young person, having
life would turn out.” Hand Heart Pocket’s support will allow left Happy Paws Happy Hearts
us to go that one step further for more confident, happy and job-ready. ALIGNMENT WITH
Little did Josela know, hope was just around
participants to ensure they achieve Well done.” OUR STRATEGY
the corner.
longer-lasting outcomes through a
GAINING NEW SKILLS AND Youth
CONFIDENCE at risk
“For years we noticed that Bryce’s anxiety would ease
when he was around animals, and he was better able
to socialise around people,” Josela said.
“We were keen to explore that further and enrolled
him in Happy Paws Happy Hearts, where they
nurtured his passion for animals and taught him
how to care for them.
“As his ability to look after animals grew, so too
did his ability to learn, communicate and socialise
with others.
“life-changing,
The experience was
and he has
“The experience was life-changing, and he has since since secured a job working
secured a qualification in Horse Care and a job with animals. I don’t cry
working with animals.
anymore. He has so much
“I don’t cry anymore. He has so much to offer
the world.” to offer the world.”
A PATH TO EMPLOYMENT JOSELA, MOTHER OF HAPPY PAWS
HAPPY HEARTS GRADUATE BRYCE.
More young Queenslanders like Bryce now have
exciting new job opportunities thanks to a recent
grant of almost $480,000 from Hand Heart Pocket to
Happy Paws Happy Hearts.You can also read
