Three community-led initiatives supporting young people in Pinjarra have received funding through the inaugural Together for Tomorrow - Pinjarra Giving program. The recipients are Choyces Wellbeing Program, Brighter Futures Youth Program, and Pinjarra Power with Hoops.
Funding Details and Recipients
Choyces Wellbeing Program received $24,332 to support trauma-informed programs for young people aged 14-19, focusing on emotional well-being, healthy relationships, and coping skills. Brighter Futures Youth Program received $4,480 for an after-school program at the Pinjarra Community Garden, teaching self-defence, safety awareness, and healthy relationships for teenagers. Pinjarra Power with Hoops received $4,000 for a free basketball and mentoring initiative aimed at strengthening youth participation and community connection through accessible sport and leadership activities.
Community Celebration and Partnership
The grants were announced at a community celebration hosted by Peel Community Foundation on Wednesday evening. The funding initiative was developed in partnership with Pinjarra Junction Shopping Centre and supported by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal. The first round of funding followed a community sensing process over the past year, involving conversations with schools, service providers, sporting clubs, and community leaders about local opportunities and challenges facing youth.
Impact on Local Youth
Choyces Wellbeing Program facilitator Chloe Lamont said the funding would allow the program to reach more young people who may be feeling disconnected or uncertain about their place in the world. “While regional communities offer many strengths, young people often face limited access to support services. Challenges around mental health, social connection, school engagement, and confidence in the future can be harder to navigate without accessible, youth-focused programs,” she said. “When young people begin to believe that nobody cares, they often stop believing in themselves. This program exists to remind them that they matter, they belong, and their future is worth investing in.”
Community Collaboration
Peel Community Foundation chair Kristie Tonkin said the selected projects reflected the strength of local organisations working alongside young people and the importance of investing early in community capability. “We heard consistently throughout our community conversations that young people in Pinjarra are seeking connection, safe spaces, encouragement, and pathways to participate fully in community life,” Ms Tonkin said. “This giving program is about backing local people with local solutions and creating the conditions for young people to thrive.” The initiative also aims to encourage stronger collaboration between local organisations, schools, businesses, and residents to address youth disadvantage and create future pathways for the next generation.
