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In this episode, Circus Centre Melbourne’s Director Steph Cox and Engagement and Development Manager Hanne Grant share how the organisation is using circus arts to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to build confidence, develop skills and connect with their community. Through inclusive circus programs, creative learning and community engagement, Circus Centre Melbourne is creating spaces where people can challenge themselves, discover their strengths and experience a sense of belonging. Tune in to hear Steph and Hanne discuss the transformative power of circus, the importance of accessible and inclusive participation and how Circus Centre Melbourne is helping people develop confidence, resilience and meaningful connections. Discover how the organisation is using creativity, movement and play to bring people together and create positive social change both inside and outside the circus ring. To learn more (and sign up to the newsletter), visit: https://circuscentremelbourne.com.au/ Follow Circus Centre Melbourne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/circuscentremelbourne Watch the Fundraising Campaign video created by Pressroom’s Moving Stories team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Saw0BjCGI9A

In this episode, Rob Miller, CEO, and Kade Berman, Community Engagement Manager, share the inspiring story of FoodFilled and its mission to tackle food insecurity and food waste by connecting surplus food with communities that need it most. Through a volunteer-powered food rescue model, strong partnerships with local retailers and food relief agencies and unique opportunities for people to get involved in meaningful community action, FoodFilled is helping create a more sustainable and equitable food system. Tune in to hear Rob and Kade discuss the growing challenges of food insecurity and food waste, the power of volunteers (especially Learner Drivers) in creating meaningful change and how FoodFilled is bringing good food to people who need it while keeping it out of landfill. Discover how the charity is building stronger communities through food rescue, connection and collective action. To learn more, visit: https://www.foodfilled.org/ Learner Driver Volunteer Program: https://www.foodfilled.org/volunteer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodfilled.inc/ Corporate Volunteering: https://www.foodfilled.org/corporate-volunteering

In this episode, Melissa Williams, Head of Fundraising & Marketing, and Estelle Julien, Philanthropy & Partnerships Manager at Variety – the Children’s Charity Victoria, share how the organisation is helping children who are sick, living with disability or experiencing disadvantage access the support, opportunities and experiences they need to thrive. Through practical assistance, essential equipment, inclusive programs, education and opportunities for children to participate and connect, Variety is helping families overcome barriers and create brighter futures. Tune in to hear Melissa and Estelle discuss the challenges facing children and families across Victoria, the importance of community support and partnerships, and how philanthropy and fundraising help turn generosity into meaningful outcomes. Discover how Variety is creating opportunities for children to live, learn, play and participate, while working towards a future where every child has the chance to belong and reach their full potential. To learn more, visit: https://vic.variety.org.au Giving Circle link: https://form.jotform.com/261878557439880 2025 Impact Report link: https://vic.variety.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2025-Impact-Report.pdf

In this special episode, we feature Michael Doran and Rob Power of TaxEd, a specialist consultancy providing tailored taxation support and education services to a wide range of Government entities and Not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. Through practical advice, expert guidance and ongoing support, TaxEd can empower emerging charities to better understand their tax obligations, maximise available concessions and make informed financial decisions that strengthen their impact and long-term sustainability. Tune in to hear Michael and Rob discuss some of the most common tax misconceptions facing charities, the value of salary packaging in attracting and retaining staff and the importance of staying compliant in an ever-changing regulatory environment. Discover practical tips to help not-for-profits make the most of available tax benefits, avoid costly mistakes and ensure every dollar goes further in supporting the communities they serve. To learn more and subscribe to TaxEd's newsletter, visit: https://taxed.com.au/

In this episode, The Boite’s CEO Dale Packard and Director Therese Virtue share how the organisation has been using music as a powerful tool for cultural celebration, connection and community engagement since 1979. Through performances, workshops and community programs, The Boite creates opportunities for professional standard multicultural performances, traditions and stories to be shared and celebrated. Tune in to hear Dale and Therese discuss the importance of preserving and promoting cultural expression, the role music plays in building understanding between communities and how The Boite continues to create inclusive spaces where people can connect, participate and belong. This episode features performances by The Boite artists, showcasing their quality and how the universal language of music strengthens community connections through creativity and collaboration. Performances include: - Excerpt from Greek ensemble Estudiantina of Melbourne - Celeste by Sebastian Lugo - Lullaby by Zulya Kamalova To learn more, visit: https://www.boite.com.au/ Follow The Boite on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_boite

In this episode, Bluebird Foundation's Bron Lawson and Kate Harris are joined by program participant Terry Kelly to share how this Geelong-based community arts organisation is using creativity to strengthen communities, foster inclusion and improve social, emotional and wellbeing outcomes. Through collaborative arts programs, Bluebird Foundation creates spaces where people feel seen and heard. Tune in to hear Bron, Kate and Terry discuss the transformative power of the arts, the impact of creative participation on confidence, wellbeing and belonging, and how Bluebird Foundation is helping people discover their voices through meaningful artistic experiences. To learn more, visit: ⁠https://www.bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au Follow Bluebird Foundation on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/bluebird_foundation/

In this episode, Pippin Remi, Executive Director, and Erin Adams, Marketing and Communications Manager, share the inspiring story of Women's Circus and its mission to create a supportive and inclusive space where women, transgender and non-binary people can build confidence, develop skills and connect through the transformative power of circus arts. Tune in to hear Pippin and Erin discuss how Women's Circus is empowering participants to discover their strengths, learn new skills and build meaningful connections. Discover how the organisation is using creativity as a catalyst for inclusion, resilience and belonging while inspiring positive change on and off the stage. To learn more, (and sign up to the mail list) visit: https://www.womenscircus.org.au/ Follow Women's Circus on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenscircus/ Women's Circus on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenscircus

In this episode, Pride Cup CEO, Hayley Conway and Engagement Director, Caitlin Bunker share how the organisation is working to make sporting clubs safer, more welcoming and inclusive for LGBTQIA+ communities. Through education, advocacy and community engagement, Pride Cup partners with clubs and sporting organisations across Australia to foster environments where everyone can participate, connect and belong. Tune in to hear Hayley and Caitlin discuss the important role sport plays in shaping communities, the ongoing challenges surrounding LGBTQIA+ inclusion and how Pride Cup is helping clubs create lasting cultural change. Discover how the organisation is empowering sporting communities to celebrate diversity, strengthen connections and ensure every player, volunteer and supporter feels valued both on and off the field. To learn more, visit: https://pridecup.org.au/ Follow Pride Cup on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pridecup/

In this episode, Kim Michod, Development Support Officer at Pets in the Park, shares how the organisation is supporting people experiencing homelessness, vulnerability and social isolation by providing free veterinary care and essential services for their pets. Through compassionate community outreach and volunteer-led clinics, Pets in the Park is helping keep people and their beloved companions together during difficult times. Tune in to hear Kim discuss the powerful connection between people and their pets, the growing demand for accessible pet care services and how Pets in the Park is creating dignity, connection and community support for vulnerable Australians and their animals. To learn more, visit: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsInTheParkAU/

In this episode, Andrew Schauble, CEO, and Felicia Bell, Head of Impact, share the inspiring story of Geelong Foodshare and its mission to alleviate food insecurity in the region. Through innovative food rescue programs, cooking classes, strong community partnerships and a commitment to dignity-driven support with their social supermarkets, Geelong Foodshare is ensuring thousands of individuals and families have access to nutritious meals when they need them most. Tune in to hear Andrew and Felicia discuss the growing challenges surrounding food insecurity, the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change and how Geelong Foodshare redistributes enough surplus food to feed 20,000 people each week and provide vital community support. To learn more, visit: https://geelongfoodshare.org/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geelongfoodshare New Mercer St Social Supermarket featured on 7NEWS: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1500870417671111

In this episode, Sally Beard, Founder and CEO of Backpacks 4 VIC Kids, shares how a simple realisation in her early days as a foster carer has grown into a vital support service for over 10,000 children and young people entering emergency care in Victoria. Backpacks 4 VIC Kids is a not-for-profit organisation that provides essential items to kids experiencing unstable living circumstances, ensuring they have access to the basic necessities many take for granted during times of crisis. Tune in to hear Sally discuss the realities faced by children entering care, the importance of responding with dignity and compassion and how Backpacks 4 VIC Kids delivers immediate, practical support when it’s needed most. From backpacks filled with everyday essentials to specialised care packs, the organisation plays a critical role in helping young people feel safe, valued and supported. To learn more, visit: https://backpacks4vickids.org.au/ Follow B4VK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backpacks4vickids_/ Watch Sally's appearance on Sunrise: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn9lSfkt_9U

In this episode, CEO Teuila Reid shares the inspiring story behind Helping Hoops - a community-driven charity using social basketball as a powerful tool to engage, empower and support young people facing disadvantage and disconnection across Melbourne. Tune in to hear Teuila discuss how Helping Hoops creates safe, inclusive spaces where participants can build confidence, develop life skills under the guidance of positive role models and experience a sense of belonging through sport. From weekly programs on local courts to broader community initiatives, discover how this remarkable charity continues to break down barriers, foster connection and create positive pathways - proving that basketball can be about so much more than the game. To learn more, visit: https://www.helpinghoops.com.au/ Follow Helping Hoops on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpinghoops/

In this episode, Caitlin Dullard and Angela Buckingham provide a glimpse inside the iconic La Mama Theatre, exploring its rich legacy as a cornerstone of Australia’s independent theatre scene that nurtures bold, original voices and provides a platform for emerging artists. Tune in to hear Caitlin and Angela share insights into the challenges and triumphs of sustaining independent theatre and the importance of artistic experimentation. Plus, learn about how La Mama continues to evolve while staying true to its origins with a fundraising initiative selling limited edition vintage poster prints to ensure future generations will have a space where stories are told, voices are amplified, and the magic of live performance thrives. To learn more, visit: https://www.lamama.com.au/ Purchase a La Mama Vintage Poster Print: https://www.lamama.com.au/shop/limited-edition-vintage-prints Hugh Jackman with his La Mama vintage poster print: https://pressroomphilanthropy.com.au/la-mama-theatre/

In this episode, President Sean Callanan, Vice President Jodie Webb and Board Member Fiona Dinner share the story behind Thursday Girls, a Melbourne-based charity supporting women living with a terminal metastatic breast cancer diagnosis. Through a compassionate peer support network, Thursday Girls provides a safe and understanding space where women can connect with others facing similar experiences, share their stories and find strength in community. Tune in to hear how the charity creates meaningful moments of connection through regular gatherings, events and supportive programs that help women navigate the emotional and practical challenges of their journey and how Thursday Girls continues to provide comfort, solidarity and hope for women and their families during an incredibly challenging time. To learn more, visit: https://thursdaygirls.org/ Visit the Thursday Girls Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ThursdayGirlsGroup-Australia

In this episode, Dewi Cooke, CEO of The Social Studio and creative leader Ms. Nyamal Omot share how fashion can be a powerful force for social change. Based at Collingwood Yards, The Social Studio is a social enterprise that supports young people from refugee and new migrant backgrounds to build careers in the fashion industry. The Social Studio provides accredited training, employment pathways and hands-on creative experiences - redefining what ethical fashion looks like in Australia. Tune in to hear Dewi and Ms. Omot describe how The Social Studio's hive of creativity builds confidence, teaches people about the transformative power of fashion and produces clothing for sale that tell stories of identity, resilience and belonging. To learn more, visit: https://thesocialstudio.org/ Visit the retail store: Collingwood Yards - Shop UG (Upper Ground). 6/30 Perry St, Collingwood, 3066. Wed, 12pm-5pm. Thurs-Sat, 11am-5pm. Follow Ms. Omot on Instagram: @nya_omot

In this episode, (It's No) Drama's Artistic Director and Program Manager, Samara Cunningham and Founding Member, Steve Canning share how this Gippsland based, not-for-profit arts company is redefining how people with disabilities contribute to cultural life in our community through innovative, high-quality, multi-disciplinary art projects. Tune in to hear Samara and Steve discuss how the organisation was founded, the vision that continues to drive its growth and the impact of its programs on young people, just like Steve, who may otherwise struggle to feel seen and heard. Through inclusive workshops and performance opportunities, (It’s No) Drama creates safe, supportive spaces where participants can explore their identities, develop practical skills and discover their voice — both on stage and in life. To learn more, visit: https://www.itsnodrama.com/ 'Mix Tape' Socials created by Pressroom: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLimibY9kWNFMoECTGmY76biAseq_M7jhO Website: https://www.itsnodrama.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsnodramatheatre/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsnodramatheatre/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNS0ZUVI1AN0C9ojdysSnyw

In this episode, Donna Lyon, Founder and CEO of Left, Write, Hook, shares how this unique program that blends boxing and creative writing is empowering adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and gendered violence to confront their past and turn trauma into strength by creating a safe space to express themselves, build skills and imagine new possibilities. Tune in to hear how Donna drew on her own lived experiences as a trauma survivor to create this unique and rapidly expanding charity. Learn more about Left, Write, Hook's flagship 8-week workshop, which was first held in 2019 and has led to a published book of survivor stories and more recently an award winning documentary now screening on Netflix. To learn more, visit: https://leftwritehook.org/ Read the book: https://leftwritehook.org/shop/p/left-write-hook-survivor-stories-from-a-creative-arts-boxing-and-writing-project Watch the award-winning documentary on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/au/title/81977680

In this special Christmas episode, we’re joined by Juliana Kay, Artistic Director of Young Voices of Melbourne, an organisation that has spent decades nurturing young singers and building a vibrant musical community. Juliana shares how the choir’s welcoming culture, diverse repertoire and strong emphasis on personal growth have helped thousands of young people find their voice—both on and off the stage. Tune in as Juliana reflects on her journey with Young Voices of Melbourne, the unique challenges and joys of guiding young performers, and how each rehearsal, performance and shared moment of music-making contributes to confidence, connection and lifelong belonging. Plus, this episode features a number of Christmas carols performed by the Young Voices of Melbourne. Enjoy! To learn more, visit: https://yvm.com.au/ Carol #1: Carol of the Bells: https://open.spotify.com/track/2j9Ah9bYYA2EOTUsGYpjPm Carol #2: The Silver Stars are in the Sky: https://open.spotify.com/track/5YB2Q6DLltkaEDEpaqbb9s Carol #3: Ding Dong Merrily on High: https://open.spotify.com/track/32v3A1kpeFmvG07jacpxSt Carol #4: Maringa Krismes: https://open.spotify.com/track/0dtym969ACy39aC6FuHXHv Listen to the Young Voices of Melbourne’s Christmas Carols album: https://open.spotify.com/album/1peOLutGIYHBhUDJ2dZbC8 Watch Pressroom’s Moving Stories video: https://youtu.be/wc6-NGt0wW4

In this episode, Knit One, Give One's CEO Vicki Davis and Social Media Manager Jodie Kagan explain how a kind-hearted group of more than 20,000 volunteer knitters throughout Australia purchase their own wool and donate their time to knit beautiful, hand-crafted items that are distributed to people experiencing hardship via KOGO's vast network of partner agencies. Tune in to hear Vicki and Jodie share how KOGO’s growth over the past 20 years has been shaped by the evolving needs of disadvantaged communities. Plus, how every one of the 100,000+ garments distributed each year is crafted with care and delivered with respect - providing recipients with a sense of warmth and dignity. To learn more, visit: https://www.kogo.org.au/ Follow KOGO's Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/knitonegiveone Watch the video 'Knit One, Give One - Who We Are': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2DAXRqZgwA&list=PLimibY9kWNFMbKTK_owERJ6Mi_K2ghyRT&t=1s Watch the video 'A Square Can Change A Life' on KOGO's homepage.

In this episode, The Community Grocer's CEO Georgia Savage shares how this Melbourne-based social enterprise brings affordable, fresh and culturally relevant produce directly to public housing estates and growth corridors across the city — helping make affordable, nutritious food accessible for all. Tune in to hear how Georgia and her team are tackling food insecurity with dignity and choice, revitalising local food systems through weekly markets and fostering social connection in the process. She also discusses The Grocer Gift Card 'Pay It Forward' program, their innovative approach to emergency food relief and how partnerships and volunteers keep this community movement thriving. To learn more, visit: https://www.thecommunitygrocer.com.au Watch the 10 Year Anniversary Video created by Pressroom: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DClbzPbBCRk/ Grocer Gift Card "Pay It Forward' Program: https://www.thecommunitygrocer.com.au/grocergift