OEC has been fostering opportunities for local communities throughout western NSW since 1976. As a not-for-profit organisation, we receive government funding for some of our services. Our aim is to channel any profits from our social enterprise undertakings, such as the Monkey Bar, towards achieving our mission of championing communities by:

• servicing need

• providing support and opportunities

• developing sustainability.

Through our Gift Fund, we donate money to community groups to overcome disadvantage and poverty. We also provide three scholarship programs, supporting students at CSU and the Senior Campus in Dubbo and music students through the Macquarie Conservatorium.

During 2010 we donated $3,500 from our Gift Fund to cover the cost of one of 12 new sports wheelchairs for the PCYC Orana Disability Sports Association. These specialised wheelchairs allow local residents with disabilities to participate in sporting activities, including basketball, hockey, tennis, rugby and soccer.

We are currently supporting training for parents and volunteers who mentor learner drivers, developing a market garden with a community focus and renovating and refurbishing a house for use by a community.

How business benefits

We encourage other organisations and individuals to make a donation to our Gift Fund to help support the needs of people in isolated and disadvantaged western NSW communities. The benefits to you are:

• Contributions are a way you or your business can deliver reliable and sustainable financial support to communities in western NSW
• OEC is responsible for the administration and distribution of funds to the community
• By including OEC Gift Fund in your will, you can join others who are helping to ensure that families and communities in western NSW continue to be supported.

Are you ready to make a difference?
You can choose to be acknowledged or remain anonymous. The OEC Gift Fund can receive bequests, corporate donations, individual donations, shares, property and stock. This fund is recognised by the Australian Tax Office with Deductible Gift Recipient status. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

To support the OEC Gift Fund and give something back to your community:

1. Deposit a donation direction into our bank account:  BSB: 062534  Acc No: 00800597  Name: Orana Education & Training Co-operative Ltd
2. Email our CEO: ian.stanford@oec.org.au
3. Phone 6809 9901 for more information.