Melville Calls For Innovative YAC It Up Ideas

Not-for-profit community groups and organisations who are either based in the City of Melville, or who can provide services within the Melville community, are encouraged to apply. Whether it’s a project, activity or event, YAC It Up Alternative Dollars could turn an innovative new idea into reality.

The one-off funding has been made available this year in a bid to support a series of smaller, grass-roots community projects instead of the once-yearly YAC It Up outdoor concert at Point Walter. These smaller events are intended to capture a broad range of interests such as art, sport, health and culture among young people in the community. 

Mayor Russell Aubrey said this was a great opportunity for the community to have direct involvement in the types of activities they would like to get involved in. “By seeking ideas from the public we are able to support a number of new ideas across a variety of interests,” he said. “I look forward to seeing the unique ideas that will be sparked by the YAC It Up Alternative Dollars grants.”

Community Development Officer - Youth, Arlene Hand said the YAC had come up with a number of project ideas for young people, including first aid training, sports programs, and multicultural projects, as well as sessions on workplace rights, health awareness and job skills. “We welcome any plans that can deliver these ideas with an innovative twist, as well as any other activities or events that could be of interest to young people,” she said. “Projects must be relevant to those aged 12 to 25 years and will be assessed on their originality, alignment with the City’s vision and values, and involvement of young people in the planning and implementation process.”

Applications for grants will be assessed on their own merit against stated criteria, and will not be used for retrospective funding for projects, recurrent operating or maintenance costs, capital equipment, or ideas that have previously received funding.

Applications close at 4.00pm on Friday, 1 May 2009 and will be assessed by the City of Melville in consultation with the Youth Advisory Council. All funds must be spent by the end of 2009.

For more information or to apply for 2009 YAC It Up Alternative Dollars, click here, phone 1300 635 845 or email arlene.hand@melville.wa.gov.au.