Community Connect is an organisation that grew out of a desire to bring local groups together in the same room. It began when Matt Dell, a volunteer with several organisations was asked to speak at an event for volunteers. Matt decided that instead of talking, he would ask some questions, questions about the various challenges organisations were facing. What happened in response was almost magical:

“We actually solved a few of those problems in the room, and I had a lightbulb moment thinking, you know, what if we just all talked to each other… then the volunteers in our community could help ourselves and each other. ”

Matt was aware that local organisations faced many challenges, especially after the bushfires and Covid. What if there was an organisation that existed purely to connect these groups and facilitate conversations and problem solving. The idea was reinforced when FRRR facilitated a Community roadmap for the Milton-Ulladulla area.

“That roadmap became our mission statement”, Matt said. From the road mapping process, Community Connect developed a clearly defined purpose, and a connected with a community of volunteers and organisations that would benefit from the collective wisdom shared in that mapping process. Community Connect aimed to provide resources, training, support and better communication avenues for local groups and volunteers.

Once the group had a clear plan of action, they were able to apply for an ICRF grant which Matt says helped launch the group into action,
“…out of that (grant) we were able to start holding the meetings and offering services to local community groups”.

“I think it has had enormous local impact and I applaud FRRR and the grant program and everyone involved for the foresight to effectively sponsor this program through the grassroots local volunteers. It’s been fantastic.”