Yarra Ranges Council call for new Community Changemakers

Yarra Ranges Council is looking for the next group of changemakers. Picture: ON FILE.

Yarra Ranges Council is encouraging Yarra Ranges residents interested in creating positive change in their communities to apply for its Community Changemakers Program.

The free program assists community members in developing the knowledge, skills, confidence and networks to create programs or initiatives that add to the betterment of the community.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child, said that the program had helped produce some wonderful community-led initiatives in the past.

“The Community Changemakers Program has previously created a number of positive outcomes in the community, such as community gardens, diversity and inclusion programs, and creative arts programs just to name a few,” Cr Child said.

“We’re looking for people who are motivated to give their time and talents to help build stronger connections in their community through development of their own project or initiative.”

Cr Child said there is no need for applications to have had prior experience in leadership or changemaking, as the program is about helping individuals develop those skills to become leaders in their community.

“So if you’ve got the time and desire to turn an idea or initiative in your mind, into a real project, make your community stronger an idea or initiative to make your community stronger come to fruition, I strongly encourage you to apply for a place in the program,” he said.

To be suitable for the program, applicants must be able to commit to up to 10 sessions taking place between late May-October, have access to a computer or tablet with internet connection for online sessions, and also access to transport for in-person sessions.

Applications for the program close at 5pm, Wednesday 26 April.

For more information or to apply, please visit https://shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/community changemakers-program.