Applying for grants is a mix of excitement, hope, and sometimes, a bit of disappointment. This document is our reflection on the journey of applying for the Mumbulla Community Grant for our CommUnity app project. While we didn't get the outcome we hoped for, the experience taught us a lot about the grant application process and where we can grow.
Background:
The CommUnity app project was born out of a need to support the Bega Valley community after the Black Summer Bushfires. We wanted to create a digital space that would help people connect and find support in local events and activities. Our focus was on inclusivity and engaging the youth to address the pressing needs within our community.
Grant Application Process:
Applying for the Mumbulla Community Grant started with a lot of research and planning. We pored over the grant guidelines to make sure our project fit the bill. We had to detail everything about our project – goals, who it would help, and how we'd make it happen. We made sure to emphasize how important the project was, especially after the bushfires, and how it could help rebuild connections and support mental health.
We also reached out to community members, like event organisers and youth groups, to get their support and gather data. It was crucial to show that our project had real backing from the people it aimed to help. And of course, we worked closely with our team to make sure everything was feasible and effective.
Challenges and Learnings:
While we put our best foot forward, we faced some challenges. One big one was trying to explain the uniqueness of our project in the grant application's limited space. It was tough to fully convey how our app could make a difference within the constraints of the application format.
We also struggled with turning community support into concrete numbers and outcomes. Even though people liked the idea, showing that in numbers for the grant application wasn't easy, especially for a digital project like ours.
Moving Forward:
Even though we didn't get the grant, our journey doesn't stop here. This experience has motivated us to improve our approach, build stronger partnerships, and look for other ways to fund our project. We're still committed to helping the Bega Valley community, and we'll keep working hard to make the CommUnity app a reality.
Conclusion:
Applying for the Mumbulla Community Grant was a learning experience for us. Even though we didn't get the funding, we gained valuable insights into the grant application process and where we can improve. We're excited to take these lessons forward and continue our journey of supporting the well-being and resilience of the Bega Valley community with the CommUnity app.
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