Shoalhaven not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) will now have on-the-ground support following the appointment of a Coordinator to help guide the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program as it rolls out across the Region.
IRCF is a place-based program, designed to address the needs and priorities of each community, particularly the unique challenges faced in the rebuild and recovery phase following the 2019/20 bushfires. As part of the program, FRRR and The Snow Foundation have partnered to work with Shoalhaven community groups and local leaders to help boost the confidence, ability and skills of NFPs in Ulladulla, Batemans Bay and Nowra.
FRRR’s IRCF Program Manager, Alli Mudford, says that the organisation knows from experience how important it is to have someone local on the ground to coordinate the program and to support organisations in the Shoalhaven Region as they turn their ideas into sustainable solutions.
“One thing that we heard loud and clear from the Shoalhaven Region during the online sessions we ran earlier this month was how appreciative they were of having access to hands-on support for their not-for-profits and communities,” said Ms Mudford. “That’s why we are delighted to have Kate Dezarnaulds joining the team as Shoalhaven’s dedicated IRCF Coordinator.”
Kate has extensive experience working with community groups, NFPs, cultural organisations and social ventures to help them increase their perceived value and economic sustainability, with a key focus on business development, sponsorship and fundraising strategies. She has held roles as Board Director, committee member and is a regular volunteer for a range of cultural and community NFPs. Kate is currently in the process of relocating back to the Shoalhaven, where she is excited to immerse herself in the community and connect with community groups and leaders.
Ms Mudford says that FRRR staff and Ms Dezarnaulds will work closely with local organisations in Ulladulla, Batemans Bay and Nowra to support them along their IRCF journey.
“Kate’s practical experience with local not-for-profit groups means she is keen to listen, learn, adapt and respond to the needs of the Shoalhaven Region’s community organisations and help to keep them strong and vibrant. Her ability to foster relationships and build partnerships in the community sector are valuable skills that Kate will bring to her role as Coordinator.”
“Each community has its own challenges, unique personalities and the depth and breadth of not-for-profits that work within its boundaries. FRRR’s role in the IRCF journey is to act as facilitators and supporters, to enhance the ability of local leaders to deliver the change they wish to see,” said Ms Mudford.
“It is absolutely a privilege to be working with the local leaders we’ve met in the Shoalhaven, and both Kate and I can’t wait to see what the future holds and how local groups turn their ideas into reality.”
For more information please contact Shoalhaven’s IRCF Coordinator, Kate Dezarnaulds, on 0418 588 537 or k.dezarnaulds@frrr.org.au.
