Grants deliver further innovation in training

“Our mission is to provide a whole range of community services that increase life opportunities, choices and skills for all people, including those experiencing economic hardship,” Ms Clarke said.

“Recently, we received funding from the Moira Shire Council via two grants that have allowed us to take our level of innovation to the next level.

“The Moira Shire Quick Response Grant for $2,725 has allowed our organisation to purchase the BenQ Electroboard/Video Conferencing interactive display facility.”

Ms Clarke said this virtual conferencing technology is equipped with carefully designed and tested centric technologies to make active engagement safe and accessible for everyone.

This state-of-the-art technology now provides YMCLC with clear sound and visual conferencing effects for attendees both in person and online.

“Having this capability eliminates the issue of people not being able to attend in person for various reasons, including those who do not have the financial means to travel to our learning and community centre.”

Ms Clarke anticipates that in the first year, over 1000 people will benefit from this resource, including staff, trainers, board of management, participants, visiting service providers, community members, and other key stakeholders.

In addition to this, YMCLC was successful in obtaining a $5,000 Moira Shire Community Strengthening Grant.

This second grant funded the delivery and installation of a new cloud-based phone system in mid-November.

“The new cloud-based system will allow us to increase and improve our provision of community services and training programs through effective and efficient phone systems that can be utilised both on and off-site, at any time, from anywhere,” Ms Clarke said.

“It will allow us to always stay connected with our staff, students, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

“Both of these projects would not have been possible without the generous funding of Moira Shire Council.

“YMCLC will continue to be resourceful, innovative and responsive in our delivery of training and services to the community,” Ms Clarke said.