CUA Capalaba grants youth program $10,000 towards Boom Box build Box

A program where children will learn about electronics and fabricate their own Bluetooth-enabled speakers made from recycled e-waste will be able to run a pilot thanks to a $10,000 grant awarded by the CUA branch in Capalaba.

​TRACTION’s Boom Box Youth Engagement program is the latest initiative designed to empower young people in need, helping them discover their talents and create their own future, from the Brisbane charity run under the auspices of the Briswest Care Association. As an alternative learning program, it’s designed to engage students who experience multiple barriers to education.

 

TRACTION was selected by a local judging panel comprising local business, community and CUA representatives, including Stephanie Morris from the Chamber of Commerce and Jason Fiddes, Pastor at the Gateway Baptist Church.

It was one of 19 community organisations in the Redlands community that applied for a grant from CUA Capalaba, as part of CUA’s Mutual Good Community Grants Program. Under the program, grassroots not-for-profit organisations with big ideas for improving the quality of life of socially disadvantaged Australians were encouraged to apply for a share in almost $200,000 in funding being offered through CUA branches across Australia.

CUA Capalaba branch manager Barbara Arnall presented TRACTION founder and program director Sandy Murdoch with the funds at a special presentation on Wednesday.

Mr Murdoch said the program came about due to TRACTION’s ongoing liaison with its 20 partner schools in the region where it identified a high level need for more practical and innovative ways to engage students who experience multiple barriers to education that often see them “falling through the cracks.”

“We’re thrilled to accept this CUA Mutual Good Community Grant,” Mr Murdoch said.

“With these funds, we can develop the curriculum and deliver a new TRACTION experience called the ‘Boom Box’ program, which will see participants learn about electronics and fabricate their own Bluetooth-enabled speakers made from old army ammunition boxes, recycled e-waste and 3D-printed components,” he said.

“We look forward to delivering this exciting new program which will join our very successful Bicycle Build and Small Engines programs.”

CUA Capalaba is one of 19 CUA branches across Australia offering grants in this second round of the program. Mrs Arnall said the grant application process highlighted the great work being done by not-for-profit and community organisations in the Redlands area.

“We’re very pleased to have the opportunity to award this grant to TRACTION, which provides young people in our community the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Mrs Arnall said.

“The Mutual Good Community Grants Program is an example of how CUA works together with our members for mutual good. By collaborating with local organisations, we can help build a stronger community for everyone.”