The leading edge initiative invites not-for-profit (NFP) organisations in the Darebin, Yarra and Moreland areas in Victoria’s north to use an online crowdfunding platform to raise money for grassroots projects supporting the unemployed disadvantaged. The Inner North Community Foundation will match targets set by each participating organisation.

“The crowd funding program aims to create a low-cost, innovative social media framework for local community organisations to generate much needed fundraising dollars,” says Chairman of the Inner North Community Foundation, Mr Kevin Breen.

“As a philanthropic leader in our region, part of our mandate is to attract and stimulate philanthropy into and within our community.”

The initiative will require chosen participants to nominate a project and fund target which will run over a 30 day period during June and July. The project must focus on enhancing the job skills and social inclusion of people who live in the Darebin, Moreland or Yarra area, and who are having difficulty finding employment.

“Each participant will race to reach their target, using the online platform,” says Breen.

“The first to reach their target will receive the largest matching amount. However, all participating organisations will receive some matching funds as long as their target is reached.”

Community groups that operate in the inner northern Melbourne region and offer programs with a focus on pre-vocational, life skills development or basic job skills training are encouraged to apply. Applications can include any projects that provide greater access to employment for people who are disadvantaged within Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs.

For more information and to apply, please visit www.innernorthfoundation.org.au

The platform will be hosted by NFP crowdfunding expert StartSomeGood.