As the festive season approaches and our community begins to turn its attention toward connection, generosity, and reflection, the Greater Shepparton Foundation’s brand new Forever 500 campaign stands out as a powerful way to give back.
With the foundation now pooling contributions for the 2026 Impact Grant Round, there has never been a better moment for locals to step forward and be part of something truly transformative.
The beauty of the Forever 500 model lies in its simplicity: every donor contributes $500, and those individual gifts are combined to build a substantial grant pool.
In late 2026, that collective fund will be channelled into grassroots initiatives designed and delivered by people right here in Greater Shepparton.
For anyone who has ever wished they could do more to support their community — but felt unsure where to begin — Forever 500 offers a clear, meaningful path.
The campaign empowers everyday individuals to become philanthropists, not by giving enormous sums, but by taking part in collective giving.
A single contribution becomes part of something much larger, helping to fund projects that strengthen community wellbeing, tackle local challenges, and fosters equal opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether it’s supporting families doing it tough, backing youth programs, or enabling innovative community-led solutions, the Forever 500 grant has the potential to spark lasting impact.
This year, as the festive season draws near, many of us are thinking more deeply about generosity and connection.
The season highlights both the joys and the pressures felt across the region.
For some community members, it is a time of celebration; for others, it magnifies stress, hardship, or isolation.
Contributing to Forever 500 in the lead-up to the festive season becomes a way of transforming these feelings into action — ensuring the goodwill of the season leads to long-term, tangible benefits by the time the 2026 grant round is awarded.
Importantly, Forever 500 is not just about giving money.
It’s about participation and belonging.
Donors become part of a shared movement: a group of community-minded people collectively choosing which local initiatives receive support.
This democratic element makes the initiative deeply personal — your contribution doesn’t just help fund change; you have a voice in shaping it.
With the 2026 grant round not far off, you will see the impact of your contribution within 12 months of giving.
Every person who joins the Forever 500 community this year helps build the momentum and resources needed to fund initiatives that could change lives now and for years to come.
Local organisations rely on this kind of vision and forward planning, and the foundation’s early start allows time for even greater community involvement.
If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference — how you can give back in a way that is local, meaningful, and lasting — consider becoming part of the Forever 500 campaign.
This festive season, as we focus on generosity and connection, your contribution can help ensure that by 2026, Greater Shepparton is stronger, more resilient and more vibrant than ever.
Join the movement.
Pool your generosity.
And help shape the future of our community.
To find out more and to register your interest online visit the ‘Get Involved’ page on the Greater Shepparton Foundation website www.greatershepparton.foundation or email info@greatershepparton.foundation
Until next time.
Amanda McCulloch
Greater Shepparton Foundation executive officer
