I Wish I’d Asked to Receive Funding

Thank You to Pick my Project Program Funding Initiative

Shepparton South Rotarians Danny Finley, Eva Gruen and David Earle were in celebratory mood yesterday after hearing ‘I Wish I’d Asked’ had received Pick My Project program funding.

Greater Shepparton children and seniors will beat loneliness together after I Wish I’d Asked was successfully funded through Pick My Project. The Victorian Government initiative saw grants of up to $200 000 awarded to organisations after ideas were forwarded. Unlike most grants programs, people were able to vote on their preferred project and Shepparton South Rotary Club was successful, receiving $62,753 for its I Wish I’d Asked project.

The project was among nine awarded in the Goulburn region, which included projects from Mitchell, Moira, Murrindindi and Strathbogie shires. Club president David Earle said they were thrilled to be chosen as part of the initiative. He said the initiative was the brain child of Danny Finley and Eva Gruen and the club had decided to sup port them to achieve their dream. The pro gram is designed to reduce the high levels of loneliness and depression experienced among seniors and the young. ‘‘With the backing of schools, youth organisations, aged care facilities and Rotary clubs, we plan to organise various activities through out the year, that bring youth and seniors together,’’ the Pick My Project web site read.

I Wish I’d Asked will provide skill sharing opportunities and connection through many fun activities such as music, gardening, knitting, digital art and craft activities, as well as computer and phone skills, all the while focusing on conversation. Conversations will be filmed and will be available on line for all to see and enjoy. ‘‘By forming meaningful relationships, participants will feel happier, more secure, content and confident,’’ the web site read.

‘‘Conversations will help the young to develop compassion and respect for seniors from different backgrounds, ages and life experiences.’’ I Wish I’d Asked will continue year-round and be come an example for other communities to follow and implement, and Shepparton will lead the rest of the country in this initiative. The project received 299 votes.

Source: Shepparton News | October 2018