Local organisations benefit from Factory funding

 

BY JULIE WADE

Storage, shade and fun sports toys have all been able to be purchased by two community organisations as lucky recipients of Mangawhai Opportunity Factory’s latest funding round. 

North Rodney Blue Light Ventures is a charity which provides adventures and challenges for local youth through a variety of programs and activities. The organisation relies on the generous support of the community, volunteers, businesses and other philanthropic organisations to cover operation costs. 

Blue Light community youth coordinator, Shane Gould, says they are again most appreciative of The Factory’s financial support. 

“This year’s grant has enabled us to purchase new arrows for our popular archery programs and two gazebos to help shade the kids while participating in the activities we provide,” he says. “The partnership with the Factory has been very beneficial and we acknowledge the commitment, time and resources the volunteers contribute to supporting the many deserving local community groups.”

Since the beginning of the year, more than 1200 teenagers have participated in Blue light activities which range from archery, air rifles, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, mountain biking and leadership development activities, and are held in local venues such as the Mangawhai Activity Zone and Moirs Point Christian Camp. 

“Overwhelming research proves that outdoor activities free from electronic devices and distractions, is beneficial to the mental and physical well-being of youth… and we see this from them enjoying the outdoors and overcoming some fears and personal challenges,” Gould says. “Feedback we receive from the kids, teachers and parents is very positive and shows Blue Light is making an impact.”

Mangawhai Heads Surf Club (MHSC) spokesperson Vickie Matich says funds they received from the Factory will go towards keeping their club rooms a bit tidier. 

“At present the club is lacking storage to house items such as radios, binoculars, first aid and lifeguard training equipment, resources, fundraising supplies and other sundry items so the grant will be used to purchase storage cupboards for the clubhouse.” 

MHSC relies heavily on fees from hiring out their clubhouse for weddings and other community events and needs to be kept presentable for guests. Having a central area easily accessible for lifeguards and members will also be ideal. 
“So having suitable storage to ‘hide’ items is essential,” Matich says. “We are again extremely grateful to the Factory for their generous donation and would also like to say thank you the community for their support.”

“This year’s grant has enabled us to purchase new arrows for our popular archery programs and two gazebos to help shade the kids while participating in the activities we provide.”
Shane Gould