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Do you know an unsung hero?

The SHCF Highlands Heroes award aims to recognise and reward those quiet achievers within the Southern Highlands community who work tirelessly for their chosen cause as volunteers.

Each year we announce two Highlands Heroes and from 2024 we are broadening the initiative to include Young Highlands Heroes.

We’re looking for nominations now. If you know of someone who might fit the bill, find out more and complete the nomination form below.

Meet our Highlands Hero

We’re proud to announce Peter Titmus of the Bradman Foundation as our latest Highlands Hero winner.

SEE HIS STORY

Who can be nominated?

Nominated volunteers do not need to be leaders within their organisation. The judging panel will be looking for those volunteers who have contributed in their own way to the betterment of the organisation and/or its services and who have not sought recognition or acclamation.

Nominations will be called from not-for-profit community organisations operating within the Southern Highlands and every two months a new Highland Hero will be recognised and rewarded with a $5,000 grant to the organisation with which they are affiliated with.

What are the key dates?

Our first two Highlands Heroes were named in 2023 with subsequent rounds being held throughout 2024.  Nominations open all year round.

NB: The successful hero and their nominating organisation must agree to be available for media interviews and other promotional activities, as required to promote the awards.

Young Highlands Heroes

Through our Young Highlands Heroes award we aim to foster a kind and connected community by celebrating and encouraging the work of young people who might otherwise go under the radar.

Applicants must be aged between 13 and 21 and may either self-nominate or be nominated by a third party.  The successful winner will receive a SHCF $3,000 grant to donate to their nominated organisation.  Find out more.

Highlands Heroes selection criteria

To be considered for the award of Highland Hero, the following will be considered by the judging panel:

  • Length of volunteer service
  • Type of activities undertaken by volunteer
  • Impact of volunteer on the work of organisation
  • Total funds raised by volunteer if engaged in activities for fundraising
  • Ways in which the volunteer has energised and influenced others to become involved in the organisation.
  • The commitment to mentoring others within their organisation and recruiting others to be become involved.
  • Any unique aspects to the work of the volunteer, above and beyond
  • Testaments from 2 other members of the organisation along with the nominator

Note: Volunteers must be affiliated with organisations that meet the Southern Highlands Community Foundation criteria for funding:

  • The geographical focus of the volunteering must be Wingecarribee LGA
  • The organisation supported by the volunteer must be established with management or board structure, relevant registration, registered bank account and the ability to report on impact and outcomes of grant.

We do not fund:

  1. Organisations that are politically focussed or are involved in proselytising
  2. Individuals
  3. DGR 2 organisations
  4. Organisations that have been established for non-charitable purpose
  5. Membership based organisations where activities only benefit their members.

Winner Stories

Meet Kerstin Schweth of Native Wildlife Rescue, our Highlands Hero for June.

SEE HER STORY

In our 21st year we’re looking forward to making a difference. There is much hidden need within our community and we plan to have positive, meaningful impact wherever we can.