Doggie Dates NSW will invest in a new gazebo to take to events after taking out the latest round of Greater Bank’s #GreaterCentralCoast Community Funding Program.
Doggie Dates NSW Founder and Director Ted Melrose said the not-for-profit’s ultimate aim was to make a difference in the community.
“Doggie Dates NSW members regularly meet to walk their dogs and we accept all dogs regardless of their behaviour and breed,” he said.
“Our goal is to connect the community through our Central Coast Doggie Dates dog walking group.
“Our attendees include retirees, young people, families and people with physical and/or mental health challenges.
“The group is safe and helps to foster inclusiveness and friendships, as well as providing education in responsible dog ownership.
“This money from Greater Bank will go a long way towards covering the cost of a new gazebo that will help us present a more professional image to the public.”
Greater Bank’s Central Coast Regional Sales Manager, Josh Swetnam, said using dogs to bring people together was a terrific idea.
“It’s quite common for people to know the names of dogs they encounter regularly in their local areas but not know the owner’s name,” he said.
“This achieves multiple aims of helping people socialise and meet new friends, get some exercise in the great outdoors and spend time with animals, all of which are great for people’s mental health and general wellbeing.”
Taking out the public vote in the February round has earnt Doggie Dates NSW $2,000, with The Nappy Collective and Central Coast Twist Mardi-Gras Float both receiving $500 as the monthly runners-up.
The March round sees a further $3,000 up for grabs, with Avoca Beach Public School P&C Association, Peninsula Touch Association and Hope Family Cottage in the running.
The public can vote online until 5pm on Wednesday, March 29, at www.greater.com.au/greatercentralcoast.
Source:
Media release, Mar 20
Greater Bank