Giving in Gippsland: How residents can give back

With the beautiful surroundings we get to enjoy here in Gippsland, it’s no wonder that Drouin locals always seem to be thinking about how they can give a little back. After all, we are certainly spoiled when it comes to all the good things in life, including good food, wine, golf, schools, and all the other bits and pieces that make up any vibrant regional Australian community. 

When you’re feeling charitable, however, it can be tricky to know just where to begin – especially if you’re living in a regional township. Whether it’s giving back to those in need or just toward your local community to watch it flourish. It shouldn’t be difficult – neither the choice paralysis nor the lack of clear avenues through which to give should be the deterrent that keeps you from giving at all.

Beginning your process, you should consider what it is you have the means to give away. Is it your time? Or are you flush with cash? Is there another resource that you can provide? Consider how you might give within your means, and give in a way that excites you, bringing you joy. Then, from there, use the below ideas to help your choice of contributing also go the distance.

Donate directly to charity

While it may seem terribly simple, a very effective way to give back is by choosing an Australian charity organisation that appeals to you and sending your money directly there. When choosing a charity, it is important to investigate its legitimacy, rather than blindly sending money the way of anyone who asks for it on the street.

Once you have found a cause that appeals to you, search the charity via the ACNC, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. This is the national registry, meaning that any reputable charity which operates in Australia will be registered with them.

Never feel pressured to give your money to a particular cause and always make sure to direct your money the way you wish to do so. It can also be important to research how a given charity is using its donations. You can ask for more information around the community, research online, or read the charity’s own financial reports on their website.

Get involved in fundraising events

Take the lead from these Drouin residents who joined the yearly Variety Bash, a colourful convoy through regional Australia to see some of the kids in need that Variety works with and raise funds along the way. This year’s Variety Bash was able to raise an astonishing $1,412,007 to help kids in need. Keep an eye out for any other fundraising, particularly fundraising events around Drouin, and be certain to jump aboard those which excite you and are within your means.

If you yourself are a part of a local community group, consider rallying the other members and start brainstorming ideas for your very own fundraising event. This could be anything specific to your community that will be sure to get the wider community excited and involved. The Warragul Motorcycle Club recently raised $28,000 for charity with their own dirt bike motorcade event.

Search for opportunities to volunteer

Volunteering is the perfect solution if you’re looking to donate your time instead of your money (although there is always the opportunity to do both)! It can also be a great way to get the entire family directly involved with giving back, especially if you have some younger givers involved.

Not only does it help you give back, volunteering will also undoubtedly be of benefit to you! Volunteering helps you get involved with the local community, being an excellent avenue for socialisation. It’s also an excellent way to see the difference you’re making first hand.

Consider getting involved in initiatives that help maintain the environment, keeping Drouin and the larger Gippsland area beautiful. Environmental volunteering has not only the benefit of maintaining our natural world, but also brings with it the knock-on effects of improving the economy and the world in which our children will live.

Support local businesses

Another simple way of giving back is by simply modifying what it is you already do. For instance, if you shop for groceries at your supermarket every week, why not go to a small grocer so that you can shop local instead? 

Shopping locally ensures that your hard-earned money is being cycled back into the local economy rather than stowed into the pockets of national corporations or even overseas conglomerates. Whilst supporting smaller businesses may often carry with it a steeper upfront cost, the cost with supporting the likes of Amazon is far less immediately apparent, but far starker down the line.

Owners of small businesses, rather than franchises, will also themselves far more likely to operate with the best interests of the local community. It will also mean there will be less money bleeding elsewhere through things such as franchise fees.

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Whilst there is no one way to give, it certainly is necessary for us as humans to find ways in which we can give back personally – ways that feel the most impactful for us. This is simply because giving back warms the soul and keeps us connected to one another. 

Residents in Drouin know first hand just how valuable community giving can be. So get out there, and flex your generosity muscles, as you have been doing all year long! However you choose to contribute, to make a change, take comfort in the fact that you’re doing your bit. And remember – there is nothing more fulfilling than simply giving of yourself for the betterment of those around you and perhaps even for the world at large.