Safeguarding Vital Local Services

The recent announcement of the closure of Horses for Hope has sent ripples through our Greater Shepparton community, not just for those directly impacted, but for everyone who values the essential work of non-profit and community-based organisations.

For over two decades, Horses for Hope offered life-changing equine assisted, native therapy services to people managing trauma, mental illness, and developmental challenges— in a format no one else could. Its loss is more than unfortunate; it’s a stark warning.

Non-profits like Horses for Hope are the quiet achievers of our region. They fill critical service gaps, particularly for vulnerable populations who often fall through the cracks of mainstream systems. But they do so on a financial knife's edge—juggling inconsistent funding and increasing demand.

The problem is systemic. Most local non-profits rely heavily on short-term grants, donations, and occasional government support—resources that are unstable and often tied to rigid outcomes. This makes long-term planning, staff retention, and service continuity incredibly difficult. When economic conditions tighten, or when grant priorities shift, these organisations become casualties.

This is where the idea of a community Forever Fund becomes not just important, but urgent.

The Greater Shepparton Foundation Forever Fund—an endowed community fund that generates annual income for local causes—could be a game-changer for Greater Shepparton. It would create a stable, locally controlled source of funding that can respond flexibly and quickly to emerging needs. Whether responding to emergencies like the 2022 floods or Foodlink, established to support business and community during COVID, helping our youth stay connected to education and employment, supporting mental health programs or simply supporting the incredible work of our non-for-profit organisations locally, a Forever Fund backs the long game.

Think of it as a financial safety net for the soul of our community.

What’s more, a Forever Fund would invite all of us to be part of the solution. Individuals, families, businesses, and philanthropic partners could contribute—large or small—with the confidence that their donations will have a lasting impact. This is about legacy. About saying: we believe in the strength and resilience of our people, and we’re putting our money where our heart is.

Communities across Australia are already embracing this model. In places like Geelong, the Geelong Community Foundation is transforming how rural and regional communities invest in their own wellbeing and support local ideas and solutions to local problems. Why shouldn’t Shepparton join them?

The closure of Horses for Hope is heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with Colin, Jack, Amy and the board of management, funders, supporters and of course participants impacted by this decision.

But it should also mark a turning point. It has highlighted the vulnerability of our most valuable services—and the need for bold, forward-thinking solutions.

Let’s not wait for the next crisis to act. Let’s build a Forever Fund! Please follow this link for more information and to donate.