In 2020, IMB Bank was voted by Forbes Magazine as one of the World’s Best Banks while Canstar Research found it has the highest number of satisfied banking customers.
As IMB Bank grows since its early days as Illawarra Mutual Bank to become one of the influential financial institutions in
Australia, it expanded its foundation arm shelling out over $12M to more than 900 grassroots projects across NSW, ACT and Victoria.
The Parramatta Police Citizen’s Youth Club’s series of fitness programs and the Victor Chang Heart Health Check are among community initiatives in Western Sydney earlier awarded grants through the IMB Bank Community Foundation.
“The Heart Health Tour plays a crucial role in the early intervention of heart disease because it is free, it goes to places where people live, and in under 10 minutes can give people a snapshot of their heart health,” Heart Health Check manager Anastasia Dounas said.
“Thanks to grants from the IMB, the tour has tested almost 8000 people since 2012, and 57 percent of those were recommended to consult their GP based on the results.
“We’re grateful for the ongoing support, which has brought us closer to achieving our mission of combating heart disease once and for all.”
The foundation is on its 25th year and IMB chief executive Robert Ryan said they believe there is no other better time to support local community heroes who are “finding it harder than ever to raise funds” that support their charitable programs.
“We know this year that a lot of people are doing it tough, and our community groups and charity organisations are never more important during times like this, when cost-of-living pressures are heightened,” Mr Ryan said.
“That’s why we are maintaining our investment to support our communities and those under significant pressure.
“This funding is available to support the local heroes who commit their time, energy, and expertise to make our communities more empowered, connected, inclusive and sustainable.”
The Foundation funds initiatives that help vulnerable people who may be suffering from mental health challenges driven by cost-of-living pressures, struggling to afford essential services, or cutting back on activities or expenses important for physical and mental wellbeing.
Foundation chair Jann Gardner said they choose projects that address pressing social, environmental, and cultural issues while fostering education, community development, and connection.
Examples of eligible projects include innovative recycling solutions, chemotherapy assistance for diverse communities, and other healthcare services particularly for cancer sufferers.
The 2024 IMB Bank Community Foundation funding closes on Friday, 14 June. Visit www.imb.com.au/community
to apply.
