A York community group that is focused on providing youth more opportunities for involvement has been awarded a $10,000 grant to support an inclusive theatre production.
Australia Post's 2019 Community Grants program has supported Gooda Judder Aboriginal Corporation in its desire to deliver the 'Hooting Owls' Theatre Production.
Gooda Judder Aboriginal Corporation chairperson Sharon Macdonald said the group aimed to inspire young people to excel and build their confidence through the production.
She said she wanted to help young people develop key teamwork and leadership skills by playing a leading role in all aspects of the production and engaging with their communities.
"As there are no activities available for the youth - aged 5-18 years - in York beyond sport, this project provides an opportunity for our youth to undertake creative work through theatre, learning new skills, expanding their opportunities and world view and engaging with others in the community," Ms Macdonald said.
"This also allows elders in the community to pass on their skills to the youth and increase education, awareness and tolerance of each other.
"It is hoped that it will also increase confidence and self-esteem with a flow-on effect to their engagement with school and their future education."
The 'Hooting Owls' production will commence next year and is set to take the stage in April 2020.
The York Community Resource Centre and local musician Chris Gibbs have also come on board to support the show.
Australia Post Community head Nicky Tracey said the grants were aimed at strengthening Australian communities by assisting groups that are best positioned to address local needs.
"The Australia Post Community Grants program has given us the opportunity to fund projects that connect individuals and their local communities," she said.
"Each recipient organisation embodies the aim of the program, which is to provide targeted support for what matters most to local communities.
"We believe that people working together have the greatest impact and we are proud to provide funding to activities that help people connect, reduce barriers to participate in community life, or develop skills and leadership capability to strengthen community networks."
Australia Post's 2019 Community Grants program has awarded almost $500,000 to 75 not-for-profit community organisations across Australia for the delivery of grassroots community projects.
