Twenty-two community organisations and not-for-profits across South Australia have been awarded grants of up to $5,000 through the 2025 RAA Grassroots Giving program. Announced last week, these grants aim to support initiatives that make a difference in the lives of RAA members and the wider South Australian community, focusing on local improvement and environmental sustainability.
The latest round of funding will support a group of projects, spanning from supporting disadvantaged individuals and wildlife rescue to fostering innovation. Recipients span both metropolitan and regional areas.
Emily Perry, RAA’s general manager of community and corporate affairs, highlighted the program’s alignment with the organisation’s core purpose. “These projects support everything from community safety, environmental sustainability, reconciliation activities, and more,” Perry stated.
She noted that, since its inception in 2019, the Grassroots Giving initiative has distributed over $450,000 in grants to more than 90 organisations undertaking important, impactful work within the community. “Our Grassroots Giving program embodies RAA’s dedication to making a real difference,” Perry noted.
Among this year’s beneficiaries is Adelaide Hills Kangaroo Rescue (AHKR), a volunteer-led group that responds to approximately 250 callouts annually for injured kangaroos and joeys. The $5,000 grant is expected to enhance AHKR’s capacity to rehabilitate wildlife, enabling them to attend more incidents and alleviate the suffering of animals involved in road collisions.
Linda White, director of AHKR, emphasised the profound impact of the funding. “As a grassroots organisation, this donation is hugely impactful and enables us to continue doing what we’re doing,” White said. “This grant allows us to support the growing number of orphaned kangaroo joeys rescued from South Australian roadsides – and support community members who often feel distressed and helpless after hitting a kangaroo.”
Other notable recipients include Zahra Foundation Australia, which supports victims of domestic violence; St John’s Youth Services, aiding young people experiencing homelessness; and Robogals, promoting STEM education for girls. The funding also extends to groups like the Mount Gambier Cancer Support Group, the Macclesfield Community Pantry, and the RFDS Riverland Support Group, underscoring the program’s commitment to a wide range of community needs.
The full list of grant recipients is available on RAA’s website.
What local initiative do you believe deserves more support in 2025? Share your insights below.
