How you can support First Nations communities
We are driven by the belief that every community holds immense potential.
At Community First Development, we believe in walking alongside First Nations communities - not from a place of aid, but as partners. We work together with mutual respect, collaboration, and shared goals. Supporting communities means building long-term relationships that honour their knowledge, culture, and aspirations. It’s about supporting them to thrive in ways that respect their independence. This leads to lasting change.
First Nations communities are rich in cultural and traditional knowledge, deeply connected to the land. However, they have faced challenges for generations, such as health disparities, over-incarceration, and barriers to education. By supporting communities, we can contribute to bridging these gaps and creating sustainable solutions that empower communities to thrive on their own terms. When First Nations people succeed, they contribute to the overall well-being of their regions - enriching social, cultural, and economic life for everyone.
Supporting Indigenous communities is a shared journey. We can’t do it alone - your support is crucial in helping us make a meaningful impact.
How you can get involved:
When you support Community First Development, you are supporting an Indigenous organisation. We are proudly First Nations led.
Donate: Your financial contribution directly supports critical community projects like education programs, cultural preservation, and economic development. Every dollar you give goes toward creating opportunities for First Nations people to thrive. You can make a one-off donation or become a regular giver.
Volunteer: Join our passionate community of volunteers and lend your time, skills, and energy to initiatives that make a real difference. From developing websites to supporting education programs, your involvement helps bring about positive change on the ground. At Community First Development, volunteering is a two-way street, you’ll also gain invaluable knowledge and build strong partnerships with communities. You’ll get to know local culture, language and stories.
Workplace giving - We collaborate with businesses, organisations, and individuals who share our vision. Many employers offer opportunities to contribute directly from your paycheck, allowing you to support our community initiatives.
Fundraise for us - Whether through an event, challenge, or creative campaign, you can fundraise for Community First Development to directly support First Nations communities.
Join our community - Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter, attending our events, and participating in our community forums. By staying engaged, you’ll receive updates on the progress we’re making and the many ways you can contribute.
Other ways to support First Nations communities:
Listen and learn - True support starts with listening. Take the time to learn about the community’s history, values, and priorities. Engage in meaningful conversations that center their voices and create mutual understanding.
Raise awareness – Awareness is key. Share information about First Nations communities with your networks to increase understanding, challenge stereotypes, and build broader support for their causes.
Build collaborative relationships - Engage in partnerships that are grounded in collaboration. Work with community leaders, Elders, and local organisations to co-create solutions that align with the community’s goals and aspirations.
Celebrate culture - Support initiatives that celebrate and preserve First Nations cultures. This could involve attending cultural events, learning about traditional practices, and amplifying the stories that reflect their rich history and contributions.
Join or support Indigenous-led organisations - Get involved with organisations led by First Nations people that are working to strengthen their communities through advocacy, economic development, and cultural revitalisation.
Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses – Where you can, look out to procure services, purchase gifts or everyday items from Aboriginal businesses.
By taking action - whether through donating, volunteering, spreading awareness, or forming meaningful partnerships - you can contribute to making a lasting impact.