Challenge Southern Highlands was one of 72 community organisations and projects nationwide to receive funding from the 2016 Our Neighbourhood Community Grants program. 

The money will be used for the ‘Nursery Specialist Training for Supported Employees' program, which will provide employment pathways for individuals who are intellectually disabled.

This will include specialised nursery propagation training and the purchase of propagation equipment to expand and further utilise the wholesale nursery.

Challenge Southern Highlands event coordinator Carol McElhinney said she was thrilled the program had received funding.

“This funding will help us to provide opportunities for intellectually disabled individuals to train in small groups and develop skills in a specialised area of the nursery's activities,” she said. 

“It is always the aim of Challenge to promote individuals who wish to formalise training and improve their employment opportunities.”

Australia Post managing director and group CEO Ahmed Fahour said the grants program was designed to recognise the role smaller charities and community groups played in bringing people together and helping communities thrive.

“Since its inception in 2013, we’ve been inspired by the efforts of hundreds of community groups who work hard to build lasting connections within their communities and neighbourhoods,” he said.

“We heartily congratulate all of this year’s successful applicants, including Challenge Southern Highlands, for their work in connecting people and for the positive impact they’re creating in their local community.”

To learn more about the Our Neighbourhood Community Grants program, how to donate to the Our Neighbourhood Trust and to view the list of 2016 Grant winners, visit www.ourneighbourhood.com.au.