Skills, Training, Engagement & Practical Support (STEPS)

Skills, Training, Engagement & Practical Support (STEPS) logo I support the yellow ribon cause

 

Due to high demand, the STEPS funding available for the current financial year has been fully allocated. Applications will next be considered in July 2012. Applicants are encouraged to contact the STEPS coordinator on 1800 170 020 to discuss applications to this highly competitive program.

The STEPS program is a joint initiative between the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and the Department of Planning and Community Development.

Since the 2009 fires many individuals and community groups across fire-affected areas have taken on key leadership roles to help drive their community’s rebuilding and recovery. The STEPS program is designed to enhance leadership in rural communities, improve the ability of not-for-profit groups to develop and implement community projects and ensure community groups avoid experiencing the effects of volunteer fatigue.

STEPS offers a flexible, independent source of funds to support not-for-profit community groups affected by or impacted by the Victorian 2009 Bushfires.

Applications are welcome at any point in time and are assessed bi-monthly. Funds will be granted bi-monthly dependent on the funds available. To ensure your application is considered at the first available assessment meeting, please contact the project officer Hannah Jakab to discuss the optimal date for you to have your application submitted.

The STEPS program aims to support projects that build community resilience, create community networks and partnerships, and encourage the development of community leadership.

The STEPS program will provide grants under five separate categories:

  1. Community Leadership: Projects that assist members of community groups to learn effective communication, motivation and planning skills through attending established leadership training courses. (Application form)
  2. Training and Skill Development: Projects that enhance the skill base of community groups through enabling members to attend formal training courses or workshops. (Application form)
  3. Strengthen Community Networks and Communication: Projects that encourage communities to work together, network, share information and learn from each other. (Application form)
  4. Mentoring: Projects that provide community groups and individuals within community groups, access to support and guidance through a suitable mentor. (Application form)
  5. Practical Human Resource Support: Projects that provide evidence that human resource support is needed to allow successful completion of recovery related initiatives. (Application form)

Eligibility:

  • Grants will be made in amounts from $100 to $30,000 depending on the category of the project.
  • Projects must directly relate to communities affected by or impacted by the Victorian 2009 Bushfires.
  • Projects must be for a charitable purpose (benefit the wider community).
  • Projects which contribute to community renewal and/or rebuilding in the areas of social and community wellbeing, economic, environment, health, education and culture will be considered.
  • Projects requiring assistance which can demonstrate a benefit to the community in the medium to long-term recovery process.
  • Applicant organisations must have an ABN or Incorporation Certificate

New Community Leadership Program:

10 Community Leadership Programs operate across Victoria. These not-for-profit organisations are led by the community for the community. The results have been real and tangible for individuals, community & industry groups, and the wider region. 

A gap has been identified in the bushfire affected region of Victoria where such a program does not exist and limited opportunities exist for those who would like to resource and strengthem their community or industry group, extend their regional networks, and reinvigorate and encourage existing and emerging leaders.

The STEPS Program has supported Community Leadership Loddon Murray to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of a leadership program for the region encompassing Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik, Yarra Ranges & Whittlesea areas.  A series of community conversations have been held across the region and it is believed that there is a high need and strong support for a community leadership program to be formed.

For more information about the proposed program or to participate in the on-line community survey, click here to access the Community Leadership Loddon Murray website.