Brighter Days Foundation Inc.

Brighter Days Foundation Inc. (ABN: 74209055773RR0001) is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to fundraising and supporting children affected by rare and severe diseases. Established on March 13, 2013, the foundation operates primarily in Bright, Victoria, and its surrounding communities, focusing on improving the lives of children aged 6 to under 15 years[3][4].

Mission and Activities

The foundation’s core mission is to raise awareness and funds to support research and care for children suffering from debilitating conditions. It primarily supports three charities: DEBRA Australia (Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association), Cooper Trewin Foundation, and CurEB Research Foundation. These organizations focus on research and support for children with rare skin diseases and other severe conditions[2].

Brighter Days Festival

A flagship initiative of the Brighter Days Foundation is the Brighter Days Festival, a three-day family-friendly fundraising event held annually during the Victorian Labour Day weekend at Pioneer Park in Bright. The festival is organized by a volunteer committee and enjoys strong support from the local community, the Alpine Shire Council, and many loyal sponsors. It has grown significantly over the years, attracting residents from Bright and the surrounding regions, as well as visitors from across Australia[1][2].

The festival not only functions as a fundraiser but also fosters community spirit and promotes local engagement through partnerships with local groups such as the Ovens Valley CFA Group of Brigades, Bright United Football Netball Club, Bright Lions Club, and the Country Women’s Association (CWA)[2].

Governance and Volunteers

Brighter Days Foundation is run entirely by volunteers, including an executive committee, general committee, and a dedicated Bright committee. The leadership is spearheaded by President Paul Terrill, supported by a team committed to the foundation’s values and objectives. The organization’s volunteer base hails primarily from Melbourne and Bright, demonstrating strong regional engagement and dedication[2].

Community Impact

The Brighter Days Foundation has built a large and loyal support network over the years. Its efforts have significantly raised awareness about rare childhood diseases and provided much-needed funding and emotional support to affected families. Through its annual festival and other fundraising efforts, the foundation strives to create “brighter days” for children enduring challenging health conditions, embodying its dual significance related to its home town and its mission to improve young lives[2].

This article covers the Brighter Days Foundation Inc., highlighting its charitable focus, community engagement, and key fundraising events based on available information.

[1] https://www.brighterdays.org.au [2] https://www.brighterdays.org.au/about-us.html [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/15e86863-3aaf-e811-a961-000d3ad24182 [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/15e86863-3aaf-e811-a961-000d3ad24182/documents/209a9745-a6e1-ef11-be1f-000d3acaa399 [5] https://www.tennis.com.au/about-tennis-australia/australian-tennis-foundation/what-we-do/brighter-days