Melba Support Services will host a series of friend dating events across rural and regional Victoria after being awarded a pride events and festivals grant by the State Government.
Particularly trying to provide a safe and welcoming environment for queer neurodivergent people, the aim is to allow them to find meaningful connections and develop friendships.
“At Melba, we are deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, including people we support and employees,” Melba chief executive officer Hayley Dean said.
“This grant is an incredible opportunity for us to learn and continuously improve to further this commitment and demonstrate our dedication to driving inclusion and diversity.”
The $10,000 grant was announced among 28 other successful organisations sharing in a total of $400,000.
“Through our Pride and Events Festival Fund we are continuing to support a range of events and activities that encourage visibility, dignity and pride,” equality minister Harriet Shing said.
“Inclusion and safety for our LGBTIQA+ communities through events and festivals is so important in making sure that LGBTIQA+ people can live wholly and freely.”
Ms Dean acknowledged the role the State Government has played in making this event series possible which will officially begin in 2025.
“Melba has long championed respect, inclusion and empowerment. This grant grows our capacity to create safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ people within our community,” she said.
To ensure Melba’s events, to be held across Victoria, meet the needs and expectations of the LGBTQIA+ community, they are conducting focus groups on 10, 12, 17 and 19 December.
This discussion will provide valuable insights, helping them to deliver events that are meaningful, inclusive and impactful.
To register for the one-hour session, visit this website melbasupport.com.au/events/mates-dates-focus-groups/#lgbtqia-mates-and-dates-focus-groups
All participants will receive a $50 gift voucher.
